§ Mr. Harveyasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps are being taken to introduce the probation system for juvenile and adult offenders of all races, as recommended in a recent Kenya report; and in what other Colonies is it intended to introduce the probation system?
§ Mr. Emrys-EvansFinancial provision was made in the Kenya estimates for the year 1943 for the introduction of a probation system in Nairobi in the first instance, based on the recommendations contained in the report of the Kenya Probation Committee. According to the estimates the staff will consist of one probation officer, two assistant probation officers (African) as well as part-time African probation officers and voluntary helpers. No further information has been received as to the progress of the scheme. In Nyasaland legislation is being introduced to provide for the probation of offenders. At the invitation of my right hon. Friend one of His Majesty's Prison Commissioners is at present in West Africa engaged on an investigation into the delinquency and welfare services, including the possibility of establishing probation systems. In a number of West Indian Colonies probation work is carried out by voluntary organisations. In addition plans have been approved in Jamaica and Trinidad for the appointment of Government probation officers.554W In Palestine a Government probation system is already in existence, and in Ceylon the appointment of a probation officer is under consideration by the Government.