Mr. David Adamsasked the Home Secretary why, when Prisons Standing Order 535 (e) provides that male prisoners who have previously escaped are to have a light in their cells at night unless the governor directs otherwise, instructions were given that a light was not to be maintained in the cell of S. H. Thurston at the time of his escape from Dartmoor, in view of his previous record; how the provision that patrols are to inspect prisoners with escape records at frequent intervals was carried out in the case of Thurston by the night patrols at Dartmoor in view of the fact his cell was not illuminated and the patrols have a sealed packet containing a key, the seal of which must only be broken in case of serious emergency; and whether he will review the punishments inflicted on subordinate officers at Dartmoor Prison?
§ Mr. H. MorrisonNo instructions were given that a light was not to be maintained in the prisoner's cell at night, and I do not understand what is the basis or significance of my hon. Friend's suggestion. It was clearly established that the prisoner's escape was not effected until after the day staff had come on duty in the morning, and no suggestion has been made that the night staff failed to exercise proper supervision.