HC Deb 11 December 1980 vol 995 cc440-1W
Mr. Kilfedder

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what types of offenders have been selected for community service; what types of offenders have been regarded as most suitable for this kind of treatment; and what has been the position in regard to sexual offenders.

Mr. Alison

Since the community service order scheme began on 1 April 1979 a total of 379 orders have been made. The offences committed by the persons concerned were—

Burglary 168
Disorderly behaviour 92
Motoring offences 65
Shoplifting 11
Malicious Damage 12
Fraud 15
Others 16

In the making of recommendations on suitability for community service an offender's age, health and capacity for work are considered relevant.

To date only one person convicted of a sexual offence has been given a community service order by the courts.