HC Deb 24 January 2000 vol 343 c21W
Mr. Rapson

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what assessment he has made of the viability of using aircraft carriers moored in Portsmouth as prison ships. [106174]

Mr. Boateng

The Prison Service continuously monitors the projected population figures and makes best use of the available accommodation to contain prisoners in secure custody. The Service evaluates all practical options that present themselves. Consideration has not been given to the idea of using an aircraft carrier moored in Portsmouth harbour as a prison ship.