§ Mr. Harrisonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement on the proposed future use of New Hall prison, Middlestown, Wakefield, and on the implications for the communities in Overton and Middlestown, Wakefield.
§ Mr. MellorWork is in progress to convert the former detention centre at New Hall into a closed prison for females. As a detention centre New Hall functioned as a closed establishment for male young offenders in the 17 to 20-year-old group. We do not see the change of use of New Hall as having any implications for the communities in Overton and Middlestown. If the right hon. Member has any specific concerns which he would like to bring to our notice, I will be pleased to answer them.