HC Deb 25 April 2001 vol 367 c283W
Mr. Colman

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department which of the prisons and penal institutions where conditions have been severely criticised by HM Chief Inspector of Prisons(a) he and (b) other Home Office Ministers, have visited; and if he will ensure that a Minister makes an unannounced visit to every such institution within a year of an adverse report by the Chief Inspector. [158376]

Mr. Boateng

Ministers undertake a rolling programme of visits to ensure that the full range of types and categories of prison are visited. Additionally, visits, both announced and unannounced, are arranged in response to issues or concerns raised for various reasons, including adverse comments from Her Majesty's Chief Inspector of Prisons.