§ Mr. VazTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what help has been given to alcoholic prisoners since the pre-release scheme was abolished.
§ Mr. Douglas HoggI am not aware of the pre-release scheme to which the hon. Member refers.
The number of pre-release courses, which will often include advice on the dangers of alcohol abuse, is increasing steadily. It has long been the prison department's policy to seek to educate prisoners about these dangers. In addition, there is now a branch of Alcoholics Anonymous within most adult establishments, and prisoners nearing the end of their sentence can be put in touch with the local Alcoholics Anonymous group near their home address should they wish to take advantage of the counselling service provided.