HC Deb 10 May 1971 vol 817 c34W
Mr. Thomas Cox

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how often are Category A prisoners' sentences reviewed; and what factors are taken into account as to possible recategorisation.

Mr. Carlisle

All prisoners serving fixed sentences of more than 18 months are considered for parole at least once a year whatever their security category. The security category of a Category A prisoner is also reviewed at least once a year and is changed if, on all available information, he no longer appears to be one whose escape would be highly dangerous to the public or the police or to the security of the State.