HC Deb 21 February 2000 vol 344 c810W
Jackie Ballard

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department when a security audit of HMP Altcourse was carried out; what were the findings of the audit; if he will publish the findings; if the operator is to be penalised for contract failures identified by the audit; what contract failures occurred and what was the amount of the penalties incurred; what remedial action has been(a) recommended and (b) implemented in respect of deficiencies found; and if he will make a statement. [110445]

Mr. Boateng

A security audit of Altcourse prison was carried out between 27 January and 4 February 2000. The report has not yet been issued but I understand the overall rating awarded will be acceptable. The report and findings cannot be made public as the information they contain could compromise the security of the establishment. The report is due to be issued on 3 March and the Director of Altcourse will then produce an action plan addressing any shortcomings identified. When he receives the audit report, the Home Office Controller will consider whether any of its findings should lead to financial penalties against the contractor.