§ Mr. Ashtonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what was the outcome of the talks between his Department and the Prison Officers Association at Ranby prison on 19 December.
§ Mr. HurdThe regional director inspected the areas of the prison which have given rise to the dispute, and discussed the matter with local management and staff. Arrangements have been made for discussions with the local Branch of the Prison Officers Association about a number of outstanding issues.
§ Mr. Ashtonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is satisfied that the breakout by two prisoners from Ranby prison on Friday 16 December was not due to (a) a reduction in surveillance of the perimeter fence, (b) reductions in manning by staff or (c) any reduction in overtime.
§ Mr. HurdWe are satisfied that this escape was not due to any of the factors described by the hon. Member.
§ Mr. Ashtonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether the number of guard posts on the perimeter fence at Ranby prison is the same or less than it was a year previously.
§ Mr. HurdThe number of perimeter patrols at HM prison Ranby is the same now as it was in December 1982.