§ Lord Harris of Greenwichasked Her Majesty's Government:
What was the total cost of probation officers training on the Certificate of Qualification in Social Work course in 1984–1985 and 1985–1986 respectively, and what is the estimated cost of the present financial year.
The Earl of CaithnessThe cost to the Home Office of sponsoring students who attend courses leading to the Certificate of Qualification in Social Work with a view to seeking employment as probation officers was £4,617,963 in 1984–85 and £4,798,728 in 1985–86. The estimated cost in 1986–87 is £5,399,624. No information is readily available about students intending to become probation officers who attend CQSW courses other than through Home Office sponsorship.