HC Deb 15 January 1990 vol 165 cc67-8W
Mr. Hood

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has had about his plans for Shotts prison.

Lord James Douglas-Hamilton

In October 1988 we published a discussion paper, "Assessment and Control", on the management of violent and disruptive prisoners, which included proposals for a new facility at Shotts prison. Responses were received from 34 organisations and individuals. My right hon. and learned Friend and I are still considering the responses received and last month I met a delegation from the Shotts local community to hear their views.

Mr. Hood

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the number of inmates presently in Shotts prison; and if he will make a statement on the numbers planned for the next 10 years.

Lord James Douglas-Hamilton

At the end of December 1989, there were 455 places available at Shotts prison and 442 prisoners. A further 12 places will become available in a new unit to be opened in April 1990. Plans for a new maximum security complex, providing a further 60 places, were discussed in the consultation paper "Assessment and Control", published in October 1988. My right hon. and learned Friend and I are still considering the responses to the discussion paper,and no decision has yet been reached on further developments at Shotts.

Back to