HC Deb 19 June 1997 vol 296 c246W
Dr. Harris

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) how many people were detained in purpose-built immigration detention centres in each month in the last year; [3985]

(2) how many places in purpose-built immigration detention centres are currently occupied; [3983]

(3) what is the total current capacity of purpose-built immigration detention centres. [3984]

Mr. Mike O'Brien

The information requested is given in the table.

Mr. O'Brien

As at 31 May 1997, the most recent date for which information is available, 279 persons in Prison Service establishments and 374 persons in detention centres, who had sought asylum at some stage, were recorded as being solely detained under Immigration Act powers.

Dr. Harris

To ask the Secretary of state for the Home Department how many asylum seekers are currently being detained in Category B Her Majesty's prisons without being charged with a criminal offence. [3986]

Mr. O'Brien

As at 31 May 1997, a total of 279 persons, who had sought asylum at some stage, were recorded as detained solely under Immigration Act powers in Her Majesty's prisons. Of these, 204 were held in establishments capable of holding Category B prisoners.