§ 71. Mr. Bowdenasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is the amount of pocket money allowed to girls in approved schools who are permitted to work out and receive wages; and who decides the amount paid in these cases.
§ Mr. YoungerThe amount is settled by the managers of the school, but the Home Office have in the past suggested what rates should be allowed and, after consultation with the Approved Schools Central Advisory Committee, my right hon. Friend has recently recommended revised rates varying according to age from 5s. to 6s. a week with the addition of 6d. a week for each three months of satisfactory work, up to a maximum of 7s. a week.
§ Mr. BowdenDoes my hon. Friend think that 6s. a week is enough for these girls who are in many cases earning between £3 and £4 a week, and that that is likely to rehabilitate them?
§ Mr. YoungerIt is not a matter that one can calculate exactly. It is a matter of judgment. We have to take account of what sums are available to other girls who are not out working, and also to the amounts which remain available for personal spending by working girls in outside life.
§ Commander MaitlandCan the hon. Gentleman say when his right hon. Friend made these new recommendations?
§ Mr. YoungerThe circular went out on 5th November.