HC Deb 17 May 1956 vol 552 cc189-90W
52. Mr. Harold Davies

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what provision is being made in prison estimates to provide modern office accommodation for staff employed in prisons, borstals, and detention centres.

Major Lloyd-George

The Prisons Vote for 1956–7 includes provision for the completion of new office accommodation at Wormwood Scrubbs, North Sea Camp, Exeter and Wandsworth.

53. Mr. Harold Davies

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is prepared to undertake responsibility for the provision and maintenance of all office accommodation in the Prison Commission.

Major Lloyd-George

I am already responsible to this House for all functions of the Prison Commissioners.

54. Mr. Harold Davies

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how long the office staff at Dartmoor Prison have been required to work in accommodation known to be in an advanced state of decay; and how soon they are likely to be rehoused in office accommodation of modern design.

Major Lloyd-George

It has been recognised since 1953 that extensive renovation would be needed to cure dampness in the offices and other parts of the prison. One office has been done. As regards the remainder, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to the hon. Member for Falmouth and Camborne (Mr. Hayman) on 19th April.

Mr. Harold Davies

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department when the female clerical staff, now occupying cell accommodation for their work in a prison wing at Wormwood Scrubs, will be accommodated elsewhere; and how long it is since the staff representatives first drew attention to this problem.

Major Lloyd-George

In about six weeks. The staff representatives raised the matter in October, 1952.