§ Mr. Frank FieldTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement on the Merseyside probation committee budget for 1991–92.
§ Mr. Kenneth BakerMerseyside probation committee has proposed a budget increase in 1991–92 of 12.8 per cent. I have received request for a determination of its proposed budget from the Metropolitan boroughs of Sefton and St. Helens. Clearly the probation committee and the boroughs need to know the final budget as soon as possible in order to manage expenditure properly this financial year. Full consideration must, however, be given to the objections raised by the boroughs and to the committee's detailed response. The determination will be announced as soon as possible.