HC Deb 24 November 1986 vol 106 c45W
Mr. Irving

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many square feet of exercise space are available to prisoners in Liverpool prison.

Mr. Mellor

A total of 40,888 sq ft in exercise yards, 109,620 sq ft in the grassed area, and 8,964 sq ft in the gymnasia.

Mr. Amess

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many prisoners there are in Her Majesty's prisons; how many these prisons were designed to hold; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Mellor

On 14 November 1986 the total prison population in England and Wales was 47,664 as against a certified normal accommodation of 41,149.

Mr. Peter Bruinvels

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is the minimum recommended number of officers working in each of Her Majesty's prisons; what was the actual number on duty on the latest date for which figures are available; how these figures compare with the authorised establishment at each prison; what is the number of prisoners in each prison and how this figure compares with the recommended maximum; what is the recommended ratio of prison officers to prisoners at each prison and what is the actual figure; and if he will give these figures for each of the last three years, where appropriate.

Mr. Mellor

The information requested is not readily available and I shall reply as soon as possible.