Mr. W. T. Williamsasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement on his plans for early penal reforms.
§ Sir F. SoskiceThe Royal Commission is undertaking a fundamental inquiry into the whole philosophy and practice of the penal system, and its report will,
96Wcitizens, Irish citizens, and aliens, respectively, showing the males and females separately, along with totals and the numbers from each of the main countries; whether these numbers are on the increase; and if he will make a statement.
§ Miss BaconBelow are figures for 1962 and 1963. Separate figures for particular Commonwealth territories are not available for years before 1962 and complete figures are not yet available for 1964.
I am certain, be of the greatest value in the long-term development of our penal machinery and institutions. The inquiry will however necessarily take some time, and I think all will agree that desirable reforms should not be held up meanwhile. The Government are considering the need and scope for immediate reforms, particularly in the 97W treatment of young offenders, and we shall keep the Royal Commission fully informed of our plans.