§ Mrs. Curtis-ThomasTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many minors are currently housed in non-juvenile correctional institutions and prisons. [82691]
§ Mr. George HowarthProvisional information indicates that, on 31 March 1999, there were a total of 366 persons aged 15–17 years in adult prisons. Young persons (15–21 year olds) in adult prisons are normally accommodated separately from adults.
Persons aged under 15 years are not held in Prison Service establishments, but are remanded to local authority accommodation. This information is published in a Department of Health statistical bulletin entitled "Children Accommodated in Secure Units". This information is presented on a financial year basis with the last report (Bulletin 1999–6) covering the year ending 31 March 1998.