HC Deb 18 October 1982 vol 29 cc31-2W
Mr. Alfred Morris

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what improvements in accommodation or medical facilities there have been at Strangeways prison since the deputation of Members of Parliament and others saw him at the Home Office earlier in the year; what further action he proposes to take; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Mayhew:

Since 1 July 1982, contracts have been signed for a new fire escape and observation booth for the existing hospital which, when delivered by the contractor, will be installed by direct labour. Repair work started about three weeks ago to the fire damaged areas and to the isolation cells. Senior officials visited the prison on 20 August and met both local management and trade union representatives to discuss and explain the proposals for the new hospital and for the longer term development of the whole of the prison. Architects are pressing ahead with the design of the new hospital, on which construction should start in 1985. My noble Friend visited the prison on 22 September and saw for himself the scope of the development proposals. Informal discussions on planning aspects began with city council officials on 20 August.

Mr. Alfred Morris

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many mentally ill and physically and mentally handicapped people are detained in Strangeways prison; if he is satisfied with the hospital and other facilities available to them; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Mayhew:

On 30 September 1982 the numbers of persons in Her Majesty's prison, Manchester whom the medical officer considered to be mentally ill or subnormal within the meaning of the Mental Health Act 1959 were seven and one respectively. There is no similar definition of physical handicap; but on the same date there were six persons in the prison who might be regarded as physically handicapped. My right hon. Friend is not satisfied with the hospital facilities at the prison; urgent repair work is in progress and a new hospital is to be built.

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