§ Mr. PaiceTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps he is taking to improve the operation of the parole board; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Douglas HoggThe parole board is an independent advisory body responsible for its own organisation. We are, however, aware that, to cope with the increased caseload, the board has increased its sittings and the number of cases considered at each one. My right hon. Friend will also be appointing extra members to the board. In addition, we are taking steps to improve the service provided to the board by the parole unit.
§ Mr. PaiceTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is the average time taken by the parole board to decide upon the recommendaton of the local panel.
§ Mr. Douglas HoggFor parole applications referred to the parole board, the average time between receiving the local review committee recommendation and notifying the inmate of the result is about five months.