§ 19. Mr. Farrasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will take steps to arrange to have provided proper employment for the inmates of Gartree Prison, Leicestershire.
§ Mr. TaverneNew and better work has already been introduced and all prisoners should soon be more satisfactorily employed.
§ Mr. FarrIs the hon. and learned Gentleman aware that until recently two-thirds had nothing to do? Does not enforced idleness of this type place a big additional strain on both the staff and the prisoners and ought it not to be avoided?
§ Mr. TaverneYes. Before this prison was opened, arrangements were made with a private firm to devote all the workshops to good class light engineering. 613 Unfortunately, the firm was unable to provide more than a small amount, but the position has now been improved. Unsatisfactory toy painting work has been replaced and soon the prisoners are to be employed on more worthwhile work.