10. Mr. Compton Carrasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what considerations he is giving to the future of the probation service in London.
§ Mr. BrookeI hope shortly to be in a position to circulate proposals to those concerned, for their comments. Meanwhile I wish to express my gratitude to Judge Aarvold for accepting my invitation to become chairman of the London Probation Committee, which advises me on the administration of the London Probation Service under present arrangements.
Mr. CarrIs my right hon. Friend aware of the very great pleasure his announcement will cause among the members of the probation service in London?
§ Mr. BrookeI am obliged to my hon. Friend.
§ Mr. C. RoyleCan the hon. Gentleman say if there has been any improvement in recruitment following the improved salaries for probation officers?
§ Mr. BrookeYes, Sir. As the hon. Member probably knows, I am extremely glad that it was possible to reach that settlement on probation officers' pay. We are, of course, still short of probation officers, so if the hon. Member can help me in increasing recruitment I should be grateful to him.