§ Mr. John BrowneTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement about the overcrowding and staffing at Winchester prison and the reason why he decided not to invite the local hon. Member to attend his visit to Winchester prison.
§ Mrs. RumboldThe certified normal accommodation of Winchester prison is 458 and its operational capacity 623. On 10 July 1991, the latest date for which figures are available, the population was 556. This compares well with other local prisons. As far as staffing is concerned, I am satisfied that Winchester prison has been provided with enough staff to carry out its work.
My hon. Friend will be informed of any future plans for Ministers to visit Winchester prison, and my right hon. Friend very much regrets that though a misunderstanding this was not done on the occasion of his visit on 6 March 1991.