HC Deb 09 November 1972 vol 845 cc1171-2
9. Mr. Thomas Cox

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is the number of vacancies that exist for prison officers.

Mr. R. Carr

For the current financial year, we have planned for a net increase of 800 prison officers, and I am hopeful of achieving this target.

Mr. Cox

I thank the right hon. Gentleman for that reply. In view of the recent prison disturbances, I am sure that he appreciates the importance of adequate staffing in prisons. Will he give a firm assurance that before any attempt is made to implement the report from the manpower control survey teams from his Department which are now touring prisons, the report will be presented to the House and an opportunity will be given for a debate?

Mr. Carr

I understand the concern that is felt, which often arises when inquiries of this kind are going on. There is a big difference between deciding whether one's staffing ratios are right for the basic requirements of prison officer work and deciding whether one is using one's prison officer manpower as effectively as possible. I understand the fears in people's minds, and I realise how those two aspects get mixed up. I assure the hon. Gentleman and the House that our intention is to have an expanding prison officer service.

Mr. Fowler

I know that my right hon. Friend appreciates the importance of maintaining the morale of prison officers. Will he take it that one of the biggest boosts to prison officer morale was his refusal to negotiate with the self-styled prisoners' union during the summer, and will he confirm that that remains his policy?

Mr. Carr

Yes, Sir.

Mr. John Fraser

The Home Secretary has confirmed that he will discuss his manpower requirements with the prison officers. Will he at the same time discuss with them the problems which they often face over overtime and housing accommodation, particularly when house prices are rising so alarmingly?

Mr. Carr

Yes, Sir. When I met the prison governors and representatives of the Prison Officers Association after the disturbances in the summer, I told both that the whole question of staffing ratios and the conditions of the service was a matter I wished to look into.