HC Deb 21 July 1955 vol 544 cc535-6
6. Mr. John Hall

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he has now considered the proposal submitted to him by the Howard League for Penal Reform on 14th June, 1955; and if he will make a statement.

Major Lloyd-George

Yes, Sir. I agree with the Howard League that it would be of benefit if satisfactory alternative methods could be found in a proportion of the cases which are now dealt with by short-term prison sentences, but I do not think that to set up a Departmental committee would be the most satisfactory approach. I propose to ask the Advisory Council on the Treatment of Offenders to make a general survey of the problem, and I have asked the Howard League for any detailed suggestions which they may care to put before me.

Mr. Hall

Whilst Thanking my right hon. and gallant Friend for that answer, might I ask him whether, should the Advisory Council find that the suggestions advanced by the Howard League are acceptable, he will consider setting up a Departmental committee to consider the proposal in more detail?

Major Lloyd-George

A broad survey by the Advisory Council might show that there are forms of treatment which would repay close examination by a Departmental committee, and I will consider that possibility.