HL Deb 10 March 1997 vol 579 c14WA
Lord McIntosh of Haringey

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What proportion of the "increase of around 11,000 in the prison population" which is estimated to result from proposals in Parts I and II of the Crime (Sentences) Bill (as stated in the Explanatory and Financial Memorandum) will result from Part I; and what proportion from Part II; and

What proportion of the "additional recurring costs of between £375 million and £425 million per annum" which are estimated to result from proposals in Parts I and II of the Crime (Sentences) Bill (as stated in the Explanatory and Financial Memorandum) will result from Part I; and what proportion from Part II.

Baroness Blatch

As stated in the Explanatory and Financial Memorandum of the Crime (Sentences) Bill, it is estimated that there will be an eventual increase of around 11,000 in the prison population some 12 years after implementation of Parts I and II of the Bill. On this basis, it is estimated that about 82 per cent. of the increase (9,000 places) is attributable to Part I: the remaining 18 per cent. (2,000 places) to Part II. The additional recurring costs of between £375 million and £435 million per annum of providing prison places to accommodate this increase are attributable to Parts I and II of the Bill in the same proportions.