HC Deb 27 January 1959 vol 598 cc864-6
17. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the various escapes from Peterhead Prison of John Ramensky, stating in each case the manner of his escape, how long he was at large, how he was recaptured, how he was dealt with on his return to prison, and also indicating when a reconsideration of his present prison sentence is to be undertaken.

The Joint Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Niall Macpherson)

John Ramsay, formerly Ramensky, escaped from Peterhead Prison in 1934, in 1952 and three times in 1958. On the first three occasions he climbed through windows or trap-doors in the roof and scaled the perimeter wall. On the fourth occasion he disappeared during recreation and on the fifth during exercise; and on both these occasions he appears to have scaled the wall. He was recaptured each time by the police, after being at large for one day (on two occasions) two days (on two occasions) and ten days (on the last occasion).

For the first four of these escapes he was punished by loss of remission and temporary deprivation of certain privileges. He has not yet been dealt with for the last escape.

The sentences of all long-term prisoners are kept under review, but my right hon. Friend is not aware of any ground which would justify reconsidering Ramsay's sentence now.

Ramsay was charged this morning with defeating the ends of justice in that he escaped from legal custody, and he is appearing in Aberdeen Sheriff Court today.

Mr. Hughes

Does the hon. Gentleman not agree that this is a remarkable case? Can he say what powers the excellent Governor of Peterhead Prison, of whom I make no criticism, has to deal with a case of this kind by giving the prisoner work suitable to his aptitude? If the Governor has no such special powers, will the hon. Gentleman see that he gets them?

Mr. Macpherson

I dare say this prisoner has several aptitudes. No doubt, the Governor will take into account what the hon. and learned Member has said.

Mr. Woodburn

Is this not a case either for giving the prisoner a key or for sending him to one of the prisons without walls?