asked the Minister for Justice the figures for the recruitment of prison officers for each of the past five years and the first nine months of this year; and if he will make a statement regarding the present number of prison officers.

Beginning with the year 1967, and ending with the first nine months of 1972, the figures are: 54, 33, 28, 28, 48, 141.

The number of prison officers of all ranks now serving is 552.

The remaining questions will appear on tomorrow's Order Paper.

Could the Minister be allowed to finish his questions? There are only a few?

Thank you. That would suit me.