HC Deb 17 November 1992 vol 214 cc106-7W
Ms. Ruddock

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether the requirement for letters to foreign prisoners to be sent for translation still stands; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Peter Lloyd

Correspondence written to prisoners in a language other than English requires translation only if it is liable to be read under the terms of circular instruction 10/1991, a copy of which is in the Library.

Ms. Ruddock

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps have been taken to enable prisoners with reading or language difficulties to get their letters read with minimum delay; and if he will list the prisons running such a scheme.

Mr. Peter Lloyd

Prison staff are available, as part of their normal duties, to assist prisoners to get their letters read.