HC Deb 05 June 1972 vol 838 cc38-9W
Mr. Kilfedder

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether he will make a statement on the disturbances at Mellish borstal on 15th May.

Mr. David Howell

On the evening of Sunday, 14th May, 35 trainees barricaded themselves in two dormitories, climbed on the roof of the building and threw missiles at the staff. The governor and his staff eventually succeeded in restoring order without the use of force but not before the trainees had done a considerable amount of damage. The cost of making good the damage has not yet been assessed. One trainee absconded from the institution during the clearing-up operation after the end of the disturbance but has since been recaptured. One trainee cut his arm accidently while on the roof; no other injuries requiring treatment were sustained by either the trainees or the staff. The majority of the trainees who took part in the disturbance were transferred to another establishment.