HC Deb 09 April 1984 vol 58 c36W
Lord James Douglas-Hamilton

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether the community service order system will be expanded; whether he will consider enlarging the grant from its present level; and if he is satisfied that there are sufficient opportunities for further expansion in all areas.

Mr. John MacKay

Community service is at present available to 31 of the 49 sheriff courts in Scotland serving a total population of some 4 million. The terms of the grant were revised in 1983 following consultation with the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities, and I shall be glad to consider proposals by authorities for further expansion of the scheme to other areas.