§ Mr. GerrardTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what were the circumstances leading to the escape of a prisoner from Wolds prison on 9 February while he was being escorted for treatment at Hull royal infirmary.
§ Mr. Peter LloydThe prisoner was taken to Hull royal infirmary on the evening of 9 February. He apparently had difficulty in walking and a wheelchair was used to taken him into the hospital. His handcuffs were removed for the examination and treatment. This is usual practice, particularly where, as here, X-rays are taken. On completion, the Wolds staff went to reapply the handcuffs prior to escorting him back to their vehicle. But before they could do so the prisoner ran through the doors, out of the hospital and along the road. The staff gave chase but lost him. Police were contacted immediately and he was rearrested the following night. An internal inquiry was mounted to review procedures. The Home Office controller was kept informed of events from the start.