HC Deb 14 July 1977 vol 935 cc771-2
17. Mr. Wigley

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether it is his policy to ensure, wherever possible, that persons from Wales convicted to sentences in gaol, borstal or other detention centres serve their time in institutions within Wales and, to the extent compatible with security considerations, as near as possible to their homes.

Mr. John

The maintenance of home ties is an important factor in allocation, but one of the limiting factors is the number of places available in particular areas.

Mr. Wigley

Does the Minister of State agree that, where security allows, it is highly desirable that prisoners should be held as near as possible to their homes? This would avoid alienation from their communities and ensure that their relatives were not penalised for their being imprisoned. Is he aware that there is no women's prison in Wales and that many prisoners who would naturally speak Welsh in their homes are not able to use the Welsh language in prison because there are no facilities for them to do so especially at prisons in England?

Mr. John

There are only two men's prisons in Wales, one in Cardiff and one in Swansea, and both are a good way away from the Welsh-speaking area. I agree that the maintenance of home ties is an important factor, but resettlement considerations may militate against the proximity to home, because another prison may afford a better chance of rehabilitation and preparation for outside life.

Mr. Heffer

Is my hon. Friend aware that many prisoners from Wales are lodged in Walton Prison, Liverpool? There is a dispute going on between the local branch of the Prison Officers Association and the management, and at the moment visitors are not being allowed to visit prisoners. This could cause a very difficult situation if it continues. Could my hon. Friend indicate what positive action is being taken on this matter in order to bring the two sides together for discussion? Is he aware that a settlement is urgently needed before there is a riot in the prison?

Mr. John

As my hon. Friend may know, the Liverpool branch of the Prison Officers' Association has put forward to the governor a list of grievances, most of which relate to manning levels at the prison. Some of the grievances can be resolved locally, but others raise national issues. It is now being arranged for these to be negotiated with the association at national level.