HC Deb 16 July 1953 vol 517 cc2224-5
10. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many young delinquents are now occupying residential delinquents hostels; how many of these hostels exist; what percentage of those sent there by the courts have been convicted of a second offence; and what steps are taken to provide appropriate training for those in charge of these institutions.

Sir D. Maxwell Fyfe

On 30th June there were 474 probationers in 32 approved probation hostels. The number who were not first offenders when sent there by the courts is not known. Eighteen of the 32 wardens now in charge of hostels have attended a fortnight's training course arranged by the Home Office.

Mr. Sorensen

While thanking the right hon. and learned Gentleman for that reply, may I ask whether he is aware that although many of the wardens who are appointed are estimable people, so far as character is concerned, nevertheless many of them may have only a very faint idea of the particular problems and difficulties that arise in these hostels? Could attention be paid to appropriate training over a rather longer period, not necessarily confined to a residential fortnight?

Sir D. Maxwell Fyfe

I should not like to accept at once criticism of people who are doing a difficult job as well as they can, but I should be very pleased to discuss with the hon. Member any suggestions that he has to make, as the aim of both of us is to improve the standard and make it as high as possible.