HC Deb 18 May 1972 vol 837 cc154-5W
36. Mr. Rose

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will make a further statement on the situation at Brixton Prison following the recent disturbances, and on the action he has taken.

Mr. Maudling

I would refer the hon. Member to my reply to a Question by the hon. Member for Brixton (Mr. Lipton) on 16th May in which I indicated a number of improvements that were being made in the conditions for unconvicted prisoners at all remand prisons and centres including Brixton. Since then there has been one short demonstration at Brixton, yesterday afternoon, which like the previous ones related to the general dissatisfaction of unconvicted prisoners with conditions at the prison.—[Vol. 837, c. 76.]

37. Mr. Rose

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will invite a group of Members of Parliament to visit Her Majesty's Prison, Brixton, to meet staff and prisoners in order to assist in alleviating difficulties.

Mr. Maudling

I do not think that this would be appropriate.

Mr. Rose

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many prisoners in Brixton Prison during this year have been awaiting trial and how many serving sentences.

Mr. Maudling

On average, 718 untried prisoners, 60 convicted prisoners awaiting sentence and 144 sentenced prisoners.