Category A Prisoners

HC Deb 15 June 1990 vol 174 cc360-1W

Mr. David Young

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many category A prisoners are held(a) in prisons and (b) in police stations; what instructions are given about the secure holding of prisoners held in police stations; and, if he has any plans for changes.

Mr. Mellor

At present 418 prisoners are confirmed as category A and all are held in prison accommodation.

Steps taken by the police to ensure the security of prisoners held in their custody are a matter for the chief officer of police. Reciprocal arrangements exist between the prison service and the police for the exchange of information relevant to the custody of prisoners who are transferred from the one to the other. Such arrangements are subject to review in the light of particular incidents.