HC Deb 31 July 1958 vol 592 cc178-9W
98. Mr. Hyde

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department to make a statement on the official proposal for an institute of criminology.

Mr. R. A. Butler

Discussions have been proceeding with university authorities and I am also consulting the University Grants Committee. I have now been informed by the Vice-Chancellor of Cambridge University that, provided the necessary funds can be made available, the university will be glad to consider the establishment of an institute of criminology, whose functions would include both teaching and research, as well as facilities for exchange of views and information with those concerned with the practical administration of the law. The nucleus of the institute would be the existing Department of Criminal Science, but it would be developed on a broader basis and steps would be taken to associate all interested Faculties with its management. I have told the Vice-Chancellor that I warmly welcome this proposal and that I am confident that its fulfilment would make an indispensable contribution to the study of the problems of crime and the treatment of offenders.

Sir G. Benson

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will make a statement with regard to the establishment of an institute of criminology.

Mr. R. A. Butler

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given today to my hon. Friend the Member for Belfast, North (Mr. Hyde).