§ Mr. Kilroy-Silkasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many industrial disputes are currently in progress in the prison service; what are the stated reasons for the industrial action; how many prison officers are involved; and what has been the length of each dispute.
§ Mr. MellorIndustrial action by prison officers is taking place in the following establishments:
- Dartmoor
- Canterbury
- Bedford
- Pucklechurch
- Lincoln
- Pentonville
- Preston
- Feltham
- Latchmere House
- Rochester
It would not be practicable to give detailed information in the form which the hon. Member has requested as to the reasons for these disputes or the number of officers involved. The reasons include disputes over entirely local matters, overcrowding, manpower reports, procedural issues relating to use of force reports, issue of family medicines and procedure for internal investigations. Within the last few days the Prison Officers' Association has threatened national industrial action over the Department's notification of intention to dismiss a particular prison officer for an offence under the code of discipline, which he has admitted, namely, that he disobeyed an order. The officer concerned is, in accordance with normal practice, suspended on full pay pending consideration of his appeal against dismissal. The first stage of his appeal—a personal hearing—is due to take place on 24 March.