HC Deb 05 July 1976 vol 914 cc383-4W
Mr. Stephen Ross

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware of the unkempt condition of parts of the Camp Hill and Albany Prison housing estates on the Isle of Wight; and what steps he intends taking to rectify this situation.

Mr. John

A headquarters team will be visiting the Isle of Wight shortly to report on all aspects of the quarters position, and if the hon. Member will let me have his criticisms in more details we shall see that they are looked into.

Mr. Stephen Ross

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many prison officers' residential quarters are at present vacant on the Isle of Wight; and what steps are being taken to let them.

Mr. John

Thirty. They are expected to be needed for further staff, and in the meantime cannot be made available for other use.

Mr. Stephen Ross

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether there is a surplus of prison officer housing provision on the Isle of Wight; and if so, whether he will make such properties available to the local housing authority.

Mr. John

There is not at present a surplus in relation to estimated future requirements. In the event of a surplus of prison houses, unwanted by other Government Departments, the local housing authority would be invited to buy them.

Mr. Stephen Ross

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is the average vacancy period for prison officers' residential quarters on the Isle of Wight.

Mr. John

Quarters fully in use, as distinct from those awaiting further additions to staff, are on average unoccupied for about three or four weeks, for redecorating, between occupancies.

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