HC Deb 30 April 1953 vol 514 cc2327-8
17. Mr. A. Roberts

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department why it is the practice to issue underclothing to prisoners in the Armley Gaol, Leeds, and not to prisoners in the Manchester Gaol.

Sir D. Maxwell Fyfe

The scale of issue of clothing is the same at all prisons for men, but winter-weight underclothing may be issued on application at the discretion of the prison medical officer.

Mr. Roberts

Is the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that this complaint has been sent to the Home Office and this prisoner did make application for underwear but it was refused? He had been wearing this type of underwear for 17 years—[Laughter.] I have a serious complaint to make. I want to ask the Home Secretary if he will make a real investigation into this matter?

Sir D. Maxwell Fyfe

I am always perfectly prepared to look into any matter that an hon. Member thinks is a serious one. This is a matter for the medical officer, but nevertheless I will look into it.