§ 30. Mr. Ronald King Murrayasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will take steps to provide hostel accommodation where youths could live for a limited period under appropriate supervision on being released from detention centres and young offenders' institutions.
Mr. Edward TaylorSeveral hostels already provide accommodation for this purpose, but I will gladly consider any further proposals which may be put forward by local authorities or voluntary bodies.
§ Mr. MurrayIs the hon. Gentleman aware that law reform bodies have been pressing strongly in recent months for the provision of hostels specifically for this purpose? Is he further aware that the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland in May unanimously adopted a recommendation to the same effect? Will he think again about the urgency of this matter, particularly since youths who now go to prison may be placed on probation with a condition of hostel residence if this is implemented?
Mr. TaylorThe hon. and learned Gentleman would be the first to admit that there are two opinions on this and that many people are doubtful about the wisdom of segregating discharged offenders in separate hostels. As to the future, I can tell him that two local authorities are considering the provision of after-care hostels, and I hope it will not be too long before they put forward some detailed proposals. When we get these, we will give them urgent attention.