HC Deb 10 December 1936 vol 318 cc2169-70
19. Mr. BENSON (for Mr. PRITT)

asked the Home Secretary under what authority, and why, have small sums of money sent anonymously to prisoners been seized by the Prison Commission?

Mr. LLOYD

The Prison Rules provide that money may not be sent to a convicted prisoner without authority, and that, if sent without authority, it may be confiscated. Anyone who wishes to send money to a prisoner for a legitimate purpose without disclosing his name to the prisoner can do so through the Governor or the Prisoners' Aid Society, but it was found that money was being sent anonymously in circumstances which suggested that the purposes were illegitimate. In such circumstances the money is returned to the sender whenever possible, but, if the prisoner declines or is unable to name the sender and give an address, it is confiscated and is handed to the organisations which assist prisoners generally on release.

20. Mr. PRITT

asked the Home Secretary whether the standing orders at present in force relating to prisons date back in part over 60 years; and whether he will consider redrafting the whole of these orders with a view to bringing prison administration into conformity with modern ideas?

Mr. LLOYD

The hon. Member appears to have been misinformed. Prison Standing Orders were entirely revised and reissued in 1933. They are constantly under review, and such further amendments are made from time to time as experience may show to be desirable.

Mr. BENSON

Is it not a fact that the zeal of the Prison Commissioners for reform is very badly hampered by the old-fashioned and obsolete structure of our prison system?

Miss WILKINSON

Will the hon. Gentleman consider asking his right hon. Friend to take note of the dress of female prisoners, the form of which perpetuates the ideas of 60 years ago?

Mr. MAXTON

Would it be possible for Members of the House to get a copy of these regulations in their present form?

Mr. LLOYD

Yes, Sir, but these Regulations are of great length; indeed I asked to be furnished with a copy to-day and I have a note here that the volume is too large to be sent in the despatch box.