§ Dame Jill KnightTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether consideration is being given to the possible withdrawal from the prison service of prison officer dog handlers.
§ Mr. Douglas HoggConsideration is being given to the use of other grades of staff for some tasks now undertaken by prison officers. This includes some tasks in dog sections.
§ Dame Jill KnightTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether consideration is being given to the employment of private agencies to police penal establishments with dogs as an alternative to prison officer dog handlers.
§ Mr. Douglas HoggNo current consideration is being given to the employment of private agencies in this area.