§ Mr. Cohenasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether the cells at the Queen's Building, Heathrow, used to detain immigrants, meet minimum standards for police detention; whether there is natural light and proper air circulation; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. WaddingtonThe rooms in Queen's Building used to detain immigrants are not cellular accommodation and therefore the minimum standards for police cells are an inappropriate basis for comparison. The accommodation includes a lounge with television, washing facilities, toilets and two pay-phones to which those held there have free access. Five bedrooms, each with three beds are available for use by male detainees. Females are not held overnight. The building is ventilated and heated by an air conditioning duct to a reasonable standard. It is well lit although the natural light needs to be supplemented with artificial lighting.
The existing facilities, and their use, are currently under review.