HL Deb 13 July 1998 vol 592 c2WA
Lord Lester of Herne Hill

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will comply with the International Labour Organisation's recommendations over the use of private companies in the administration of prisons in the United Kingdom; and, if not, why not. [HL2476]

Lord Williams of Mostyn

Her Majesty's Government are fully committed to the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Convention on Forced and Compulsory Labour. We do not consider that we are in contravention of the Convention because there are sufficient safeguards governing prisoners working in contracted out establishments to ensure compliance with the convention.

Furthermore, we believe that the ILO's recommendations could have the perverse effect of reducing prison workshop activity. This would have an adverse effect on the Government's and Prison Service's commitment to the provision of constructive regimes and the rehabilitation of prisoners.