§ Mr. DalyellTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what advice he is giving to social security office managers in Lothian region about the proposals of Lothian regional council that courses in self-defence should be offered to public service employees in jobs, where they may have to serve potential assailants; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. Gillian ShephardThe Department does not provide training in self-defence for staff who deal with members of the public, and has no plans to do so. Interviewing and visiting staff receive training to help them cope with potentially aggressive situations, and to minimise risks to their safety.