§ Baroness Ewart-Biggsasked Her Majesty's Government:
What was the average number of prison officers in 1979 and 1989 respectively, and how many prison officers there were on 31st March 1990.
Earl FerrersThe total average number of prison officers (including senior and principal officers) in 1979 was 14,294, of whom 13,961 were in post in establishments. The corresponding figures for 1989–90 were 20,652 and 20,223. On 31st March, there were 20,969 officers of whom 20,532 were in post in establishments.