HC Deb 01 April 1943 vol 388 cc328-9
30. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Home Secretary whether improved arrangements have now been instituted in prisons to enable prisoners to spend more time out of cells; and what are the hours per day now spent in cells?

Mr. Morrison

Yes, Sir. Arrangements have recently been made for an increase in the hours of duty of prison officers which will enable prisoners to be out of their cells each day for one hour longer than hitherto. As a result, prisoners will now be out of their cells for employment and exercise for about seven hours 20 minutes from Monday to Friday, three hours on Saturday, and 3½ hours on Sunday for chapel and exercise. These periods are substantially increased in the cases of those prisoners who attend physical training classes and educational classes.

Mr. Sorensen

Is my right hon. Friend aware that his announcement will cause great satisfaction and will undoubtedly produce a beneficial effect on prisoners?

Mr. Morrison

I am much obliged to my hon. Friend.