Youth Justice: Next YJB chair urged to be equally outspoken

Morgan, chair of the Youth Justice Board, resigned last Friday because he did not feel the Home Secretary wanted to work with him to cut youth crime.

He announced his intention to stand down after John Reid did not appoint him for a second term as chair. Morgan interpreted this as showing a lack of confidence in him, and resigned.

In a letter to youth justice colleagues, he said: "It is vital the board be chaired by someone with whom the Home Secretary wishes to work closely and this is not currently the case."

During his three years as chair, Morgan frequently spoke out against Home Office policy.

Paul Cavadino, chief executive of crime reduction charity Nacro, said: "Any new chair will see that a more effective policy will use custody less." The NCB echoed his sentiments.

Morgan's term as chair was due to end on 1 April, but he has asked for his resignation to be effective from the end of February. A spokeswoman for the Home Office said no decision had been taken on interim arrangements.

- See Leader, p13.