HC Deb 20 November 1985 vol 87 c172W
Mr. Wigley

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many prisons in Wales have the facility to hold, either on remand or on custodial sentence, women prisoners.

Mr. Mellor

None. Female remand prisoners from Wales would normally go to Pucklechurch or Risley; female sentenced prisoners go to Drake Hall or Styal.

Mr. Wigley

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether there has been any recent change regarding the rights of prisoners at Her Majesty's prisons to receive local newspapers or press cuttings from their home area; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Mellor

No. The conditions under which prisoners may receive personal newspapers are set out in prison standing order 4. The only restriction on the receipt of press cuttings enclosed with general correspondence are those imposed in respect of the content of all such correspondence under standing order 5. Both standing orders have been published and copies placed in the Library. Copies are available for reference by prisoners in the prison libraries.

Mr. Wigley

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is the estimated site value of Cardiff and Swansea prisons, respectively.

Mr. Mellor

Without knowing the purpose for which sites would be used, reliable valuation is not possible. Based on residential development, the estimated site values of Cardiff and Swansea prisons are approximately £1,250,000 and £450,000, respectively.