asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many borstals are now in the planning stage; when are these likely to be opened; for how many offenders in each case; and what will be the likely cost of this programme.

The current prison building programme for England and Wales includes provision for two new young offender establishments, each for a population of 300; their precise use in the system has yet to be decided. They are expected to open in 1985 and 1986. The likely total cost is £23 million at current prices.