§ Mr. McQuarrieasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will now reconsider his decision and appoint a judical panel comprising a judge and three lay assessors to investigate the circumstances of the present situation in Peterhead prison where a prison officer is being held hostage by some of the inmates; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. LangNo. Her Majesty's Chief Inspector of Prisons for Scotland, has been asked to carry out a special investigation into complaints about conditions and treatment of prisoners at Peterhead prison and to report to the Secretary of State as quickly as possible. A copy of the terms of reference has been placed in the Library of the House.
I will consider whether further investigations or inquiries are required in the light of his findings.