§ 28. Mr. Priorasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is satisfied with the present rate of recruitment for the prison service; and if he will make a statement.
§ Miss BaconBetween 1st January, 1960, and 31st December, 1964, the number of male basic grade officers rose from some 4,600 to 6,000. So far this year just over 200 newly-recruited officers have completed their training. This is a lower figure than in the corresponding periods in the past three years and the position is being carefully watched. It remains my right hon. and learned Friend's policy that we should attract more recruits to the prison service, provided that there is no reduction in the high standards which are necessarily required. There is still no shortage of applicants but only a small proportion is suitable.