Written question asked by Christopher Gill (Conservative) on Thursday, 4 May 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 10 May 2000. It was answered by Charles Clarke (Labour) on Wednesday, 10 May 2000 on behalf of the Home Office.

Home Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what is the (a) minimum and (b) maximum penalty for (i) violent demonstration and (ii) destruction of private property.

Answer: Mr. Gill: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is the (a) minimum and (b) maximum penalty for (i) violent demonstration and (ii) destruction of private property. [121347] Mr. Charles Clarke: There is no specific offence of violent demonstration. Section 1 of the Public Order Act 1986 prescribes a maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment for the offence of riot which involves the use, or threat, of unlawful violence for common purpose such as to cause fear for personal safety. It can only be committed where 12 or more people so act. Under section 2, similar behaviour committed by three or more people (violent disorder) is punishable with a maximum penalty of five years imprisonment. Section 3 relates to similar behaviour where only one or two people are involved (affray). The maximum penalty for this offence is three years imprisonment. The destruction of private property would normally amount to criminal damage. The maximum penalty for criminal damage is 10 years imprisonment. There are no minimum penalties for these offences.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 121347; 349 c403-4W
Session: 1999-00
Subjects: Demonstrations Crimes against property Public order offences Sentencing Violence Vandalism Civil disorder
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk