§ Mr. F. GRAYasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that some of the beneficial work contemplated by the Probation of Offenders Act, 1907, fails by reason of the fact that there is no fund available for the work; and whether he will consider the possibility of providing for the application of any existing fund to the purpose of this Act, not already provided for?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANThe Probation of Offenders Act already provides that the remuneration and out-of-pocket expenses of probation officers may be paid from the fund out of which the salary of the clerk to the justices is paid. If the hon. Member has the question of a Government grant in mind, I am afraid this cannot be considered in the present financial situation.