HC Deb 09 February 1939 vol 343 cc1125-6
69. Mr. Edmund Harvey

asked the Home Secretary how frequently, under present prison regulations, may prisoners write and receive a letter during the course of their sentence?

Sir S. Hoare

The intervals at which letters are allowed varies from one week to four weeks according to the division or class in which a prisoner is placed and to the stage which he has attained under the progressive stage system. Each letter written entitles the prisoner to a reply. All prisoners are also allowed a letter on admission and transfer.

Mr. Thorne

Will the Home Secretary consider the advisability of giving these people a week-end at home?

Sir S. Hoare

Obviously that is quite a different question.