<p>New staff has a <strong>probationary</strong> period of fourteen weeks before their contract is made permanent.</p>
<p>The word "probationary" is the correct answer in this context. The sentence states that new staff members have a period of fourteen weeks before their contract is made permanent. This indicates that during this period, their performance and suitability for the job will be evaluated. The word "probationary" is commonly used to describe this type of period where employees are being tested or evaluated before their employment becomes permanent. Therefore, option (C) "probationary" is the correct choice.</p>
<p>The other options are:</p>
<p>(A) precautionary - This word means taking precautions or measures to prevent something undesirable from happening. It does not fit the context of the sentence.</p>
<p>(B) permanent - This word means lasting or intended to last indefinitely. While the contract eventually becomes permanent, it is not the term used to describe the initial period.</p>
<p>(D) prospective - This word means likely or expected to happen or become. It does not accurately describe the period before the contract becomes permanent.</p>