§ Mr. Chris SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many prisoners have been held on remand in Her Majesty's prisons for a period exceeding three and a half years; if he will list all such prisoners; what steps he proposes to take to bring to an end such extended remands; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John PattenOn 31 August 1989 one unconvicted prisoner had been held in Pentonville prison for more than three and a half years. Mr. Lorrain Osman was committed to custody pending completion of extradition proceedings and remains in cutsody awaiting the final outcome of the succession of appeals that he has lodged. He may not be surrendered for extradition while appeal proceedings are pending. A judicial review and further habeas corpus proceedings began on 4 October. Extradition proceedings are not subject to the custody time limits contained in the regulations made under section 22 of the Prosecution of Offences Act 1985.
§ Mr. Chris SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make available in the Library those communications he has had from the Governor of Hong Kong since May 1989 in relation to the case of Mr. Lorrain Osman; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John PattenMy right hon. Friend has received none.