§ Mr. CohenTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what purpose is served by the chimney integral to Strangeways prison, Manchester; and whether he will consider its demolition.
§ Mr. MellorThe chimney at Strangeways prison, Manchester is a ventilation shaft forming an integral part of the plenum system which provides heating and ventilation to the cell blocks. It has been working satisfactorily for over 100 years and seems likely to continue to do so for some time to come. There are no plans to demolish it and I would see no point in considering such an action unless its condition should deteriorate to such a degree that it becomes a safety hazard.