§ Lord Aveburyasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they will undertake a further review of the provision of multi-faith accommodation in the prisons of England and Wales; and the acceptability of this provision to visiting ministers of non-Christian religions. [HL1003]
§ Lord Bassam of BrightonThe Prison Service is committed to providing the necessary facilities for prisoners to practise their faith, including suitable accommodation for worship. Questions on accommodation for worship (including whether the room has met with approval from the appropriate ministers) were included in the annual checklist completed by Race Relations Liaison Officers in 2000. The results, which are currently being collated, will be published in the 10th annual report by the Prison Service Race Relations Group to the Prison Service Management Board, due out in early summer. The Prison Service will also be discussing this issue further with members of the Advisory Group on Religion in Prison, in particular to consider drawing up guidelines for prisons on the requirements and use of such rooms.