§ Mr. Steelasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how the current prison building programme in Scotland compares in scope with other recent programmes.
§ Mr. YoungerExpenditure on prison building has increased steadily from less than £1 million in 1978–79 to almost £10 million in the current year. The programme provides for substantial expenditure on phase II of Shotts prison, which is due to be completed early in 1987, and thereafter on the new maximum security prison to be built at Peterhead. Apart from major re-development at Greenock prison and Polmont young offenders' institution, the programme includes a broad spectrum of projects designed to increase security and improve accommodation and facilities for inmates and their visitors as well as working conditions and facilities for staff. This substantial programme highlights the priority which the Government attach to improving prison facilities in Scotland.
§ Mr. Steelasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the nature and purpose of the building work in progress at Perth and Saughton prisons.
§ Mr. YoungerThe major building projects recently completed at Saughton prison and currently in progress at Perth prison are new gatehouse/administration blocks. Their purpose is to provide the requisite degree of security and control at the entry point to the prison, to provide more modern office accommodation and facilities for staff and to provide greatly improved accommodation and facilities for inmates' visitors, agents and social workers.
§ Mr. Steelasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what arrangements have been made for consultation on the requirements of the current prison building programme.
§ Mr. YoungerDetailed consultation is undertaken by my Department on the requirements for all projects at local level with governors and the local prison staff.