§ Mr. Ernie Rossasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what has been the number of new prisons or extensions to existing prisons in construction in Scotland since 1980.
§ Mr. AncramNo new prisons or extensions to existing prisons have been provided in Scotland since 1980. However, during that period some £18 million has been spent on prison building. The main projects have been the redevelopment of Greenock prison and Polmont young offenders' institution and the refurbishment of Peterhead prison, while a wide range of other projects has been undertaken with the aim of increasing security and improving accommodation and facilities for inmates as well as working conditions and amenities for prison staff.