§ Mr. Altonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many prison officers are currently employed in England and Wales; and if he will make a statement on recent talks on their pay and conditions of service.
§ Mr. MellorThe number of staff in post in the prison officer class in England and Wales on 1 April 1986 was 18,890 full-time and 24½ part-time.
The second part of the hon. Member's question is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer.