HC Deb 17 June 1952 vol 502 cc971-2
6. Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what representations have been made to him on the provision of adequate prison staffs; and what instructions in this matter he has issued.

Mr. R. A. Butler

I have been consulted by my right hon. and learned Friend the Home Secretary about the staffing requirements of the prisons in the light of the continued growth of the numbers in prison. We have reached substantial agreement about the future recruitment of prison officers.

Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

Is that answer equivalent to an assurance that so long as the prison population continues to increase and prisons remain overcrowded, as they are, the Chancellor of the Exchequer will not seek to reduce the number for reasons of economy?

Mr. Butler

I am satisfied that a thoroughly statesmanlike attitude has been taken towards this important problem. In so far as the Chancellor is keen on economy, in this sort of matter he has to match economy to the needs of the moment.

Sir H. Williams

Can my right hon. Friend say how many of the constituents of the hon. and gallant Member for Brixton (Lieut.-Colonel Lipton) are now in Brixton gaol?