Yes, it is well thumbed, and it shows that, in the experience of other countries, a powerful form of regulation can work in driving down crime levels. The effectiveness of such regulation depends on the country and the culture to which it is applied, but such experience has been gained. If they trust each other, and the public trust those involved in private security, crime prevention is much more successful than when the police and the public are alienated from the industry. We have experienced that recipe for catastrophe for the past 20 or 30 years. My right hon.
Friend is absolutely right.
Of course, he speaks with knowledge that is gained from great experience in the field. The partnership approach that he advocates is precisely that which is set out in the Bill. That is why we welcome the fact that the industry, trade unions and police are all in favour of establishing a regulatory regime that can achieve the public confidence that he describes. We do not propose to regulate for the sake of doing so when public concern does not justify action or when the regulatory burden might be disproportionate. That is why the SIA will be responsible for licensing individuals who are offering services under contract in designated sectors of the industry.