§ Mr. N. MACLEANasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will take steps to remedy the present position whereby warders in Scotland who are living out of quarters receive 2002W about half of the amount paid to officers in similar conditions in England and Wales?
§ Sir G. COLLINSThe minimum rate of lodging allowance payable to prison officers not provided with official quarters is the same in Scotland and England. The maximum rates in England, which vary according to local conditions, are greater than in Scotland though not to the extent suggested in the question. I understand that in England many prison officers are not provided with official quarters. In Scotland official quarters are available for practically all married officers, and for all but a few unmarried officers.
§ Mr. LEONARDasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether, in regard to the claim of Warder W. B. Wilson, Perth prison, for lodging allowances and other expenses, he will take into account the fact that this officer, his wife and three children, one a baby in arms, had to occupy a three-roomed house with a total floor space of about 500 square feet during extensive structural alterations involving painting and decorating?
§ Sir G. COLLINSAs explained in reply to a question by the hon. Member for Govan (Mr. N. Maclean) on the 10th instant, of which I am sending the hon. Member a copy, the claim of Warder Wilson has already received full consideration, and due account has been taken of all the circumstances referred to. I see no reason for departing from the decision that payment would not be justified.