§ Mr. VazTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received concerning the fresh start initiative; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MellorDiscussions and correspondence with staff associations and other interested groups and individuals have been under way since the beginning of the fresh start initiative. All prison establishments have been working fresh start arrangements since August 1988. The initiative has therefore been completed and operational for some time. The benefits for officers of improved pay and the ending of overtime were felt immediately. Other benefits in terms of more professional management, increased productivity and regime enhancement are being progressively realised. This process will continue through the transitional period of the framework agreement, while the working week of officers is gradually shortened, until by 1 April 1992 all officers will be working a 39-hour week.