§ 28. Colonel Gomme-Duncanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps are proposed to secure the release of the official quarters now occupied by persons other than members of the staff at Perth, Barlinnie, and Peterhead prisons, respectively.
§ Mr. J. StuartOf the 43 houses at these prisons occupied by persons other than members of the prison staff, five are occupied by mental nurses employed in the Criminal Lunatic Department at Perth, nine are condemned, and 12 require substantial reconditioning.
The rent-paying tenants at Barlinnie and Peterhead were offered the quarters when they were surplus to prison requirements, and I do not feel justified in seeking a court order for their eviction until other accommodation is available for them.
§ Colonel Gomme-DuncanCan my right hon. Friend say how long it is likely to be before accommodation will be available for these people?
§ Mr. StuartThat will depend upon the rate at which the housing demands are being overtaken in the three cities referred to.