To ask the Secretary of State for Justice how many and what proportion of residents of ClearSprings properties have breached their residency obligations since the scheme was introduced; how many have been removed from their property as a result; and if he will make a statement. (264757)

As at 24 March 832 service users placed in ClearSprings’ properties available to the bail accommodation and support service have been in breach and their residency terminated, since the commencement of the scheme in June 2007.

The scheme is designed to support those who due to their lack of suitable accommodation would otherwise be in prison rather than on bail or home detention curfew. The breach rate shows that, if defendants or offenders abuse the accommodation provided by the scheme, they will be returned swiftly to court or prison as appropriate.