Mr. John D. TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what factors have led to the retention of the social work qualification for probation officers following its abolition in England and Wales; and what proposals he has to bring Northern Ireland into line with England and Wales. [8305]
§ Sir John WheelerThere is no statutory requirement in Northern Ireland for probation officers to hold a social work qualification. However, it has been a policy of the Probation Board for Northern Ireland, for many years now, to recruit only those with such a qualification. Developments in England and Wales, following abolition of the social work qualification, will be watched closely. Any proposal to change the current Northern Ireland arrangements will be made in accordance with the particular needs and circumstances of Northern Ireland.