§ Mr. Alex CarlileTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many prisoners in gaols in England and Wales are currently doubling up in cells designed for one; what was the equivalent figure 12 months ago; and if he will make a statement. [33437]
§ Miss Widdecombe[holding answer 20 June 1996]: Responsibility for this matter has been delegated to the Director General of the Prison Service, who has been asked to arrange for a reply to be given.
Letter from A. J. Pearson to Mr. Alex Carlile, dated 21 June 1996:
The Home Secretary has asked me, in the absence of the Director General from the office, to reply to your recent Question about the number of prisoners currently doubling up in cells designed for one.At the end of May 1996, there were 8,430 prisoners doubling up in cells designed for one. This represents 15.5. per cent of the total prison population. At the end of May 1995, there were 8,362 prisoners sharing accommodation designed for one. This represented 16.5 per cent of the total prison population.