§ 33. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department his present plans for modernising or discontinuing the use of Dartmoor Prison.
§ Sir D. Maxwell FyfeIn view of the pressure on prison accommodation the Prison Commissioners have been obliged to proceed on the basis that Dartmoor 560 prison must remain in use and must therefore be brought up to modern standards as fast as financial and other governing considerations permit. The programme of improvements which have been carried into effect or started, includes, in addition to extensive reconditioning of the structure, the provision of workshops, improvements to heating and modernisation of sanitary recesses, the introduction of electric lighting and the building of officers' quarters. The next stage will include the provision of a gymnasium, assembly room, class rooms and other requirements.
§ Mr. HughesDoes not the right hon. and learned Gentleman think that Dartmoor Prison is peculiar among all prisons, in that it tends to negative the aims of modern penology, which include reformation and restoration of the offender to decent civil life?
§ Sir D. Maxwell FyfeThat is why I am trying to put in the improvements, which will conduce to the aims mentioned by the hon. and learned Member.