§ Mr. Bishopasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is aware of the problems caused by the shortage of probation hostels and trained staff; and what plans he has for meeting these difficulties and for improving the conditions of service.
§ Mr. CarlisleWhen Part I of the Children and Young Persons Act, 1969, comes into effect next year, a substantial number of places, at present occupied by young persons aged 15 and 16 years, will become available. It is expected that there will then be sufficient places to meet the needs of the courts for young offenders aged between 17 and 21 years. Facilities for the training of supervisory staff are continuing to be developed. Conditions of service are the responsibility of the Standing Joint Advisory Committee for Staffs of Children's Homes; considerable improvements have been effected in the last two years.