HC Deb 17 February 1898 vol 53 cc879-80
MR. H. KIMBER (Wandsworth)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether his attention has been called to certain published statements seriously reflecting upon the condition of Wandsworth Prison, the conduct of the prison officials and visiting magistrates, and the treatment of prisoners there, and that prisoners have sent their petitions to the Home Office complaining of their treatment; and what action has been taken upon such petitions, if any?

THE HOME SECRETARY

Yes, I have seen the statements to which the hon. Member refers, and am glad to have this opportunity of saying publicly that they are unfounded, and, in fact, the exact reverse of the truth. Complaints by prisoners at Wandsworth of their treatment have been very rare during the past year, and in no case serious or calling for any action on my part.