HC Deb 14 July 1930 vol 241 cc937-8W
Dr. HASTINGS

asked the Home Secretary the date of the installation of the systems of ventilation in use in Brixton and Pentonville Prisons respectively; whether the systems installed in Brixton and other prisons negative one another when two or more are in use art the same time?

Mr. CLYNES

The system of ventilating the cells by air conduits and flues dates from the time when these prisons were reconstructed—Brixton in 1882 and Pentonville in 1872. Of more recent years the original system of ventilation has been supplemented by putting sliding panes in the windows, but the opening of window panes does not negative the flue system; on the contrary, it improves the ventilation of the cells.

Dr. HASTINGS

asked the Home Secretary whether he is prepared to order an independent report by an expert upon the ventilation of Brixton Prison?

Mr. CLYNES

I understand that some representations on this subject have been made by certain members of the visiting committee of Brixton Prison, and these representations are receiving careful consideration.