Prison Accommodation (Hansard, 16 December 1992)

§ Mr. Hinchliffe
To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will review the certified normal accommodation system for prison capacity; and if he will make a statement.

§ Mr. Peter Lloyd
The Prison Service has no plans to review the system for certifying normal accommodation. Section 14 of the Prisons Act 1952 provides that cells may only be used where they are certified by an inspector. This function is carried out by Prison Service area managers.
The certification process enables the Prison Service to establish the total capacity of the estate. For 1993–94 the Prison Service will be providing additional help to area managers in taking stock of the accommodation available in each establishment.

§ Mr. Hinchliffe
To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what action he will take to improve prison reception areas.

§ Mr. Peter Lloyd
The standard design specifications for new prisons require a self-contained unit for the reception and discharge of prisoners in humane conditions, and in a logically ordered and efficient manner. Where practical, these specifications are also used for designing improvements to existing prisons.
Between 1991–92 and 1993–94 improved reception and discharge facilities have been opened or are being provided at 17 prisons.
In addition, an admissions guide on good practice in the management of arrangements for the reception and induction of prisoners has recently been issued to all Prison Service establishments. This is intended to enable staff to identify how best to provide prisoners with the support and information they need. A copy has been placed in the Library of the House.

§ Mr. Hinchliffe
To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will ensure that self-catering facilities are available to all long-term prisoners; and if he will make a statement.

§ Mr. Peter Lloyd
Facilities to enable long-term prisoners to cook their own food and prepare additional meals in the evenings are provided in a number of establishments, particularly dispersal prisons. The provision of similar facilities will be considered elsewhere when resources allow.