MP supports Desecration of War Memorials Bill
4th February 2010
Mike Penning is supporting a Bill that would increase the possible sentence for those who desecrate a War Memorial.
Mike Penning, MP for Hemel Hempstead, is supporting a Bill to properly punish those who show absolute disrespect to our brave service personnel when they desecrate a War Memorial.
If the Bill were to become law and amend the Criminal Damage Act 1971 then desecrators would receive a level of punishment that is suitable for the seriousness of this crime. It would enable a Judge to have the power to allow these cases to be dealt with by a Crown Court where the sentence could be up to a maximum of 10 years imprisonment.
Mike said:
“This year is the 70th Anniversary of the Battle of Britain and the 65th Anniversary of the end of World War II. War Memorials are the focus of our acts of remembrance. I have been shocked by cases of desecration of War Memorials recently and I fully support this Bill which seeks to elevate our War Memorials to a special status with special legal protection.
“If someone desecrates a War Memorial they show absolute contempt for our brave servicemen, servicewomen and civilians who gave their lives fighting for our freedom and democracy.”
“This Bill would ensure that those who desecrate War Memorials face the proper penalties.”
The Bill was introduced by Conservative MP, David Burrowes and follows a case where bronze plaques were stolen from a War Memorial in Broomfield Park in Southgate, north London.
