Written question asked by Lord Kelvedon (Conservative), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 18 March 1997. It was answered by David Curry (Conservative) on Tuesday, 18 March 1997 on behalf of the Department of the Environment.

Dept of the Environment

Question: Statement on what plans he has following his recent consultation exercise on local authorities' powers to provide community alarm systems.

Answer: Mr. Channon: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what plans he has following his recent consultation exercise on local authorities' powers to provide community alarm systems; and if he will make a statement. [21127] Mr. Curry: Having carefully considered the more than 100 responses received to our consultation, we have concluded that local authorities should be empowered to provide community alarms to anyone resident in their area, and to be able to charge for such services. Community alarms can help the elderly to continue to live in their own homes, disabled people to lead independent lives, and can also be useful in tackling crimes such as repeat burglary, domestic violence or racial harassment. We intend to bring forward legislation at the next convenient opportunity.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 21127; 292 c525W
Session: 1996-97
Subjects: Crime prevention Alarms Fees and charges Domestic safety Local government Powers