HC Deb 04 August 1966 vol 733 c677
35. Mr. Sharples

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will give the terms of reference and composition of the Standing Advisory Council on Penal Treatment.

Mr. Roy Jenkins

I am glad to be able to inform the House that Mr. Kenneth Younger has accepted my invitation to be Chairman of the Advisory Council on the Penal System. I hope to announce the names of the other members shortly.

The terms of reference of the Council are: To make recommendations about such matters relating to the prevention of crime and the treatment of offenders as the Home Secretary may from time to time refer to it, or as the Council itself, after consultation with the Home Secretary, may decide to consider.

Mr. Sharples

Can the right hon. Gentleman say when he expects this advisory council to start its work?

Mr. Jenkins

I hope quite soon. I am sorry that I am not able to announce the full membership before the Recess, but I hope to be able to do so very soon.