§ Lord Aveburyasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether, in view of the fact that checks on proposed visitors to category A prisoners are carried out by police forces within the United Kingdom, this means that persons resident overseas are invariably refused when they apply to visit such prisoners; and if there are any exceptions, whether they will explain how the checks are carried out.
§ Lord EltonThere is no rule that such visits should always be refused. However, the procedure whereby prospective visitors to category A prisoners are checked by United Kingdom police forces may create difficulties for visitors who are normally resident overseas. It is helpful if sufficient notice can be given of the intention to visit and if the prospective visitor is able to provide in advance an address within the United Kingdom at which he will remain for sufficient time for the checks to be carried out.