HC Deb 02 March 1989 vol 148 cc266-7W
44. Mr. Pike

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps he is taking to increase the health prospects of the prison population.

Mr. Douglas Hogg

A number of measures which are under way or planned can be expected to have a significant effect on the health and well being of prisoners. They include a major programme of new building, refurbishment and environmental improvement and an increasing emphasis on preventive medicine and health education including specific initiatives in relation to AIDS, hepatitis B, and the risks from drug and alcohol misuse and smoking.

84. Mr. George

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps he is taking to ensure the health of prisoners held in police cells.

Mr. Douglas Hogg

The police have a duty of care to anyone held in their custody and I have no doubt that chief officers of police ensure that that duty is carried out responsibly. In accordance with the codes of practice issued under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984, the police must call a doctor if a prisoner appears to be physically or mentally ill.