§ Mr. HendrickTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans he has to change male prisons to female use. [18424]
§ Beverley HughesThe number of women in prison continues to rise steeply, dramatically exceeding the most recent population projections. Extra capacity is urgently needed and the Prison Service has decided that the best way of providing this is a further change of function of male accommodation. Buckley Hall prison near Rochdale has been selected as the most suitable option in terms of suitable accommodation, geographical location, staffing arrangements and other related factors. The prison is expected to be ready to accept female prisoners from early next year.