§ Mrs. Chalkerasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is the total annual amount of financial assistance given by his Department to voluntary after-care hostels; whether he is aware of the opinion of the National Association of Probation Officers that 491W these grants should be substantially increased; and if he will make a statement about his plans.
§ Dr. SummerskillIn the financial year 1973–74 the amount was £305,213, excluding grants towards the administrative expenses of the National Association for the Care and Resettlement of Offenders and the Bridgehead Housing Association. We are anxious to encourage the participation of the voluntary movement in after-care and we keep the scale of assistance constantly under review. Increases in place grants were introduced on 1st April last. The number of places in after-care hostels continues to increase. In 1973 the increase was about 250—higher than in any previous year.