§ Mr. Alex CarlileTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what procedures and actions are taken against prisoners found positive through mandatory drug testing for, or found in possession of, each type of mainstream illegal drug; and if he will make a statement. [28240]
§ Miss WiddecombeResponsibility 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. Butler to Mr. Alex Carlile, dated 8 May 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 procedures and actions taken against prisoners found positive through mandatory drug testing or found in possession of drugs.164WOffences relating to drugs within prison are pursued either through internal disciplinary and administrative procedures or by referral to the police for consideration for prosecution. It is for the prison governor to decide, in the light of the seriousness of an alleged offence of possession or supply, whether it should be referred to the police or dealt with through internal disciplinary procedures.The full range of disciplinary sanctions is available to governors in dealing with drug offences. The most common disciplinary response when a prisoner is found guilty at adjudication of drug misuse, possession or supply is the addition of up to 42 days to the sentence. Cautions and suspended punishments are also available where there are mitigating circumstances.When found guilty of drug misuse, the prisoner may also be required to undergo a repeat test or a programme of frequent tests. Other responses to drug offences may include their consideration as a factor when re-categorisation is considered; in the restriction of release on temporary licence and other privileges; and the imposition of closed visits.