§ 24 Mr. Yatesasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is aware that Henry Rosefield, a prisoner at Parkhurst, was, previous to his death. 561 removed from a hospital bed to a cold punishment cell; and by what method punishment cells are heated at this gaol.
§ Sir D. Maxwell FyfeAt the time when the prisoner Henry Rosefield was reported for an offence and punished he was not a hospital patient. Certain allegations about the circumstances in which he underwent the punishment award were made at the inquest, where the prison medical officer gave evidence that he certified Rosefield fit for the punishment cells, that these were not colder than the rest of the prison, and that Rosefield's confinement there was not a contributory cause of death. The punishment cells are heated by hot air ducts from the prison central heating system.
§ Mr. YatesWill the Minister inquire into this, because I understand that the ordinary cells are centrally heated but that the punishment cells have no heating whatsoever inside? The air has to be brought in from outside and cannot penetrate the thick walls. Would he consider whether punishment cells are suitable for persons who are really ill?
§ Sir D. Maxwell FyfeThe suggestion in that question is contrary to my information, so I should be very glad to look into it and check what I have said. I would remind the hon. Member that in this case, when the man in question was reported and punished, he was not a hospital patient. I will look into the point and if the hon. Member has any particular facts to put forward I shall be glad if he will have a word with me, or write to me about them.