§ Mr. Peter AtkinsonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what proposals he has in relation to the powers of civilian staff in prisons to search prisoners.
§ Mr. HowardCivilian staff in prisons conducting activities involving prisoners—for example, workshop instructors or catering staff—should be able to conduct non-intimate "rub-down" searches for unauthorised items such as concealed knives or sharp tools. This would make it unnecessary to bring in uniformed staff solely for that purpose and gives prison governors greater flexibility in their use of staff. In order to put the legal position beyond doubt, a clause is being tabled today for inclusion in the Criminal Justice and Public Order Bill which will enable civilian staff authorised by the governor to conduct these searches. Only suitably trained or experienced staff regularly involved in the custody or supervision of prisoners would be authorised to use the power. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland will bring forward similar measures for Scotland.