§ Mr. WhittingdaleTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) what assessment he has made of the compatibility of the establishment of the website www.jeremybamber.com with Prison Rules; and if he will make a statement; [152972]
(2) what rules govern the setting up of websites by prisoners; and if he will make a statement. [152970]
§ Mr. BoatengPrisoners are not normally permitted to have computers in their possession, and are not permitted internet connections. Prison Rules do not regulate a person outside a prison setting up a website on a prisoner's behalf.
Paragraph 34 of Standing Order 5B, made under the Prison Rules, regulates the sending by prisoners of written material for intended or likely publication, and this would include material for posting on a website.
The Standing Order prohibits receipt of payment for publication; the sending of material about a prisoner's own crime, except where it consists of serious representations about a conviction or sentence; and references to other prisoners or staff in such a way that they may be identified. I am satisfied that the material on this website does not fall within the prohibitions of Standing Order 5B.