HC Deb 15 March 1984 vol 56 cc498-9
11. Mr. Alex Carlile

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department in what circumstances hon. Members may deal directly with the governors of Her Majesty's prisons and their senior medical staff.

Mr. Hurd

Hon. Members may, of course, approach the governors of Her Majesty's prisons and the senior medical staff direct. Where the request is for factual information, which is not confidential or controversial, the governor may reply direct. Other inquiries are referred to prison department headquarters so that they can be considered before a reply is given.

Mr. Carlile

Is the Minister aware that a large number of inquiries by hon. Members to prison governors and their senior medical staff are answered by junior civil servants who have never set foot inside a prison? Is he further aware that this is frustrating not only for hon. Members but, in particular, for prison medical officers?

Mr. Hurd

The distinction here is one of common sense, and it applies to areas of administration other than prisons. Where an hon. Member is asking simply for a factual statement, it is reasonable that he should get a local reply direct. Where he is asking about matters of policy, it is reasonable, in the interests of all concerned, that it should be considered where policy is made.

Mr. Rowe

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the governor of the prison in my constituency has consistently and rapidly replied in full to every question that I have asked him and I am confident that he will continue to do so?

Mr. Hurd

I am delighted to hear of my hon. Friend's refreshing experience.