Written question asked by John Austin (Labour) on Friday, 9 October 2009, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 14 October 2009. It was answered by Alan Campbell (Labour) on Thursday, 15 October 2009 on behalf of the Home Office.

Antisocial Behaviour

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what recent representations he has received on the use of Mosquito ultrasonic deterrent devices; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: [holding answer 14 October 2009]: The Home Office has received the following representations about the use of the Mosquito ultrasonic dispersal device:"Six (letters) from MPs on behalf of their constituents;""19 PQs from seven different MPs;""14 letters from members of the public and local authorities."Of these, six were concerned that the device might breach a person's human rights and three were concerned with the legality of the device. Other questions and correspondence received referred to the use of the device and whether the Home Office will ban the device or provide guidance.The Home Office encourages local agencies to consider the full range of innovations, schemes and practices intended to reduce crime, the fear of crime and antisocial behaviour. It is for local agencies like the police and local authorities to decide on the most appropriate interventions to tackle antisocial behaviour based on their knowledge of what works best locally, adopting a tiered approach to tackling antisocial behaviour using a blend of measures to provide a proportionate response.The Home Office does not recommend or promote any commercial ultrasonic dispersal device or venture and at the present time does not have any plans to take further action on this matter.

Secondary information