§ Mr. GorrieTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when the special segregation unit at Saughton prison was completed; how much it cost; how many prisoners it is designed to accommodate; how many staff will work there; when he expects it to be in operation; and if he will make a statement. [67497]
§ Mr. McLeishThe new Segregation Unit was completed in November 1998, at a cost of £1.3 million, excluding VAT. The Unit has been designed to hold a maximum of 14 prisoners. Staff on duty at any one time will comprise one Supervisor, 3 Residential Officers, and, when required, one Administrative Officer. The Unit will be brought into operation once current discussions with the Scottish Prison Officers' Association, about staffing levels for the establishment as a whole, have been satisfactorily concluded.
From 1 July 1999, prison service issues will be a matter for the Scottish Parliament.