29. Mr. Graham Whiteasked the Home Secretary whether in view of the importance of the treatment of delinquents in any scheme of social reconstruction he will consider the setting up of a committee to inquire into the existing arrangements, including the organisation of the probation service?
§ Mr. H. MorrisonThere was a full inquiry into the probation service made by a Committee in 1936, and as a result of their recommendations the service has been strengthened and improved. I fully recognise the desirability of taking all such steps as are practicable at the present time for reviewing problems relating to the treatment of delinquents with a view to making rapid progress in the post-war years, and I am considering the best way of achieving this object. Whether, however, an inquiry covering so wide and diversified a range of subjects as are included in the suggestion of my hon. Friend would be appropriate, is I think doubtful.