67. Major Lloydasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is contemplating any action as a result of the recent Scottish convention on juvenile delinquency.
§ Mr. WestwoodMy right hon. Friend is communicating to those who attended the convention, and to the local authorities and other organisations concerned with the problem of juvenile delinquency, an outline of the constructive suggestions which were made, and he is asking them to consider carefully what action they might take to supplement or improve the various forms of provision for which they are responsible. He is also giving urgent consideration to such of the suggestions made at the convention as appear to require or justify action on the part of his Departments.
§ Mr. Kenneth LindsayIn view of the fact that these figures are in direct contrast to the English figures and that there is a shortage of probation officers and youth officers, will the Minister see that action is taken speedily?
§ Mr. WestwoodI can only repeat the last words that I said, which were that the Secretary of State has already given urgent consideration to such of the suggestions made at the Convention as appear to require or justify action on the part of his Departments. Action is being taken as speedily as possible.
§ Mr. Neil MacleanWill the Under-Secretary of State for Scotland convey to the Secretary of State that when he convenes conferences of a similar character he should give longer notice, and also hold the conferences on a date more convenient to Members of Parliament?
§ Mr. WestwoodYes, Sir.