Oral Answers to Questions — Juvenile Delinquents (Education).

– in the House of Commons at on 22 May 1941.

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Photo of Mr Rhys Davies Mr Rhys Davies , Westhoughton

asked the Home Secretary whether, in view of the increase in juvenile delinquency, he will take steps to provide all possible educational instruction to juveniles under detention?

Photo of Mr Herbert Morrison Mr Herbert Morrison , Hackney South

Educational instruction is, of course, given to persons detained in approved schools and Borstal institutions and, so far as possible, to those in remand homes. As regards persons detained in prisons, I am afraid that, for the reasons given in my answers to previous Questions on this subject, I cannot contemplate the resumption of educational facilities at present, whether generally or for any specified classes of prisoners.

Photo of Mr Thomas Harvey Mr Thomas Harvey , Combined English Universities

Is the Home Secretary aware of the very serious effect on juvenile prisoners of that decision, and will he keep in mind the possibility of resuming educational work for juvenile prisoners?

Photo of Mr Herbert Morrison Mr Herbert Morrison , Hackney South

Yes, Sir, I will keep that in mind. The hon. Member will see that for the bulk of juvenile prisoners proper provision is made. It is in the ordinary prisons that the difficulty arises, and there are real staff problems there. I can assure the hon. Member that if I can do anything about this matter, I shall be very happy to do it.

Photo of Mr Daniel Lipson Mr Daniel Lipson , Cheltenham

What is the objection to giving permissive powers to governors if they are able to exercise them?

Photo of Mr Herbert Morrison Mr Herbert Morrison , Hackney South

That would not work administratively.