§ Mr. G. Griffithsasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that, in connection with the operation of the new bell scale at Leeds prison, there are periods when from eight to ten officers have to man upwards of 500 prisoners; and whether he is satisfied that custody at this prison is safe under such conditions?
§ Sir S. HoareThe number of prisoners in this prison is normally about 450, and during hours when they are working out of their cells the number of officers on duty varies from 33 to 45. The number is reduced to 14 in the evenings, but that is when the prisoners are for the most part locked in their cells. The answer to the last part of the question is in the affirmative.