HC Deb 25 March 2004 vol 419 cc1021-2W
Ms Buck

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what progress, has been made in implementing the recommendations made in internal inquiry reports relating to allegations of prison officer abuse at Wormwood Scrubs; and if he will make a statement. [162664]

Paul Goggins

The Governor at Wormwood Scrubs has implemented the recommendations that have emerged from various completed inquiries and, aided by the Area Manager, ensures that current arrangements are regularly monitored and audited.

Recommendations relating to Wormwood Scrubs, but implemented nationally include: Setting up a Professional Standards Unit to monitor all investigative and disciplinary processes and to oversee staff corruption issues. Introducing new investigative procedures. Developing more effective audit processes of all functions in prisons including segregation units. Adopting robust policies on alcohol consumption during duty hours including closure of staff clubs. Streamlining new selection and succession planning for managers. Developing new partnership arrangements with Health Care trusts that provide improved care for prisoners. Improving the Area Manager/Governor line management arrangements. Improving grievance procedures and introducing systems that ensure the integrity of the processes. Introducing better training for investigators.