asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what measures he intends to take to reduce overcrowding in prisons.

A major programme of new building is being implemented, and measures to increase the use of non-custodial penalties are under consideration.

I thank the right hon. Gentleman for his reply. As non-custodial treatment depends so much on the probation service, I draw the attention of the right hon. Gentleman to the report in today's Press that many probation officers are having to take second jobs to make ends meet. Will he consider at least reviewing the conditions of service of probation officers?

The Question is about overcrowding in prisons.

There have been some extremely interesting articles in the newspapers about conditions in prisons. The hon. Gentleman's second point is dealt with in a later Question.

When does the Home Secretary hope to make an announcement on the non-custodial situation?

Not in the immediate future. I hope I am in order in saying that this was discussed yesterday in another place, and the discussion was very valuable.