Mr. Ron Brownasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what recent representations he has received about strip-searching in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ScottAbout 40 letters, some from organisations and some from individuals, have been received during the last six months, mostly about the searching of women prisoners. In addition, a report was published by the National Council for Civil Liberties in July, and we have also received a report from the Standing Advisory Commission on Human Rights.
Strip-searching is a normal feature of prison security arrangements throughout the United Kingdom, and to the best of our knowledge, in other western European countries and North America. I am satisfied that the level of searches in Northern Ireland is the minimum consistent with requirements of security and safety.