§ Mr. MichaelTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make it his policy to ensure that young people on remand from courts in Wales are dealt with in such a way as to maximise public protection and minimise serious reoffending while ensuring cost-effectiveness.
§ Mr. Nicholas BennettThe responsibility for dealing with young people on remand rests with the local authorities, except where they are bailed or are remanded to prison custody. Such remands to prison are to be ended under the provisions of the Criminal Justice Act when sufficient local authority secure accommodation has been provided. Our officials have completed a review of secure care policy in Wales, including both secure accommodation and its community-based alternatives. We will be publishing this for consultation shortly.