§ Mr. Nealeasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department under what powers the directorate of industries and farms is able (a) to operate, (b) to issue accounts and (c) to negotiate contracts.
§ Mr. HurdIn all aspects of its work the directorate of industries and farms acts on behalf of the Secretary of State who has overall responsibility for the running of prisons. The Prison Act 1952 and the Prison Rules 1964 make provision for the employment of prisoners in useful work, and the Secretary of State has power to make contracts and do other acts necessary in fulfilling that responsibility.