asked the Minister for Justice the number of people under 21 upon whom prison sentences were imposed during 1962, 1963, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969; the rate at which this number increased or decreased from 1962 to 1969; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Prisoners Under 21.
80.
The number of persons under 21 upon whom prison sentences were imposed in each of the years 1962, 1963, 1966, 1967, 1968, and 1969 were, respectively, 191, 179, 260, 252, 269 and 274. The increase between 1962 and 1969 was 43 per cent.
These increases are consequential on the increase in crime over the period. The increase in crime reflects a worldwide trend which, unfortunately, we cannot expect to avoid entirely.