First Offenders

69.

Mr. Meacher
asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will publish the Home Office circular recommending the use of detention centres for first offenders; and if he will make a statement on the considerations which he took into account in deciding to issue the circular.

Mr. Carlisle
I am sending the hon. Member a copy of the current Home Office circular on detention centres. There is also a copy in the Library. It does not contain such a recommendation.