HC Deb 24 July 1958 vol 592 c653
15. Mr. Simmons

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether the new research unit which he set up in the Home Office to consider the problem of juvenile delinquency has been instructed to inquire into the considerable increase of youthful drunkenness, particularly with reference to the places and agencies in association with which young people obtain intoxicants and contract drinking habits.

Mr. R. A. Butler

The Home Office Research Unit is at present fully occupied, mainly with studies relating to the treatment of offenders. I hope, however, to arrange for an investigation into the increase in the number of convictions for drunkenness to be carried out by another body.

Mr. Simmons

Can the Home Secretary say whether this body will be recruited entirely from the ranks of the Home Office, or will he bring into it people experienced in dealing with juveniles—leaders of youth clubs and youth organisations, for example—to assist in its work?

Mr. Butler

I think it likelier to be outside the Home Office, and directly I can get it arranged I will, perhaps, inform the hon. Gentleman.