§ Miss Wrightasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans he has to improve the present severely overcrowded situation in Winson Green prison, Birmingham.
§ Mr. BrittanThe overcrowding at Birmingham prison reflects the continuing pressure on the prison system generally, but it has been worsened by the loss of places at Gartree following the riot there on 5 October 1978. Until those places are restored, overcrowding at Birmingham will continue, although attempts to reduce its worst effects by making use of other accommodation within the Midland region will continue.