Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministerial Statement

Parc Prison

13 May 2024 · 12 other contributors

Opened by Edward Argar Con Melton and Syston

Justice & CourtsMental HealthNHS

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Edward Argar raised concerns about parc prison in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • The safety of prisoners and staff at HMP Parc remains a top priority.
  • Nine adult deaths occurred at HMP Parc since March 2024.
  • Four of the deaths are linked to substance misuse, but the two most recent are not currently associated.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Government Statement

Edward Argar

The Minister announced that the safety of prisoners and staff remains a top priority, extending condolences to those who have lost loved ones at HMP Parc. Since March 2024, nine adult deaths occurred, with four linked to substance misuse, though the two most recent are not currently associated. The challenge posed by synthetic opioids is acknowledged as broader than just the prison estate. HMPPS and G4S use advanced technologies like Rapiscan for on-site testing of suspicious substances, conduct extensive searches, run drug amnesties, and utilise X-ray scanners. Training in carrying naloxone has been expanded to around 400 staff members at HMP Parc.

Other contributors (12)
  • Chris Elmore Lab Bridgend

    Question

    The MP questioned the Minister about issues around Spice in HMP Parc, community concerns that the prison acts as a catalyst for drug abuse both inside and outside its walls. He also highlighted staffing challenges and mental health support needs for prison staff.

    Minister reply

    The minister acknowledged the importance of working with various partners including Public Health Wales and local authorities to tackle Spice issues. He mentioned ongoing efforts such as restricting supply, promoting recovery, and reducing demand through collaboration between HMPPS, G4S, and others. Mental health support for staff was also addressed, noting that staffing challenges are being handled by increasing experienced officers' support.

  • Stephen Crabb

    Question

    The MP questioned the Minister about allegations of prison staff bringing illegal substances into HMP Parc. He asked why X-ray body scanners for staff were not in use and requested actions to ensure a safety culture among all prison workers.

    Minister reply

    The minister confirmed that while most staff act honestly, efforts are being made to root out those involved in drug trafficking. Body scanners for visitors and handheld detectors for cells have been deployed along with Rapiscan systems for substance testing.

  • Ruth Cadbury Lab Brentford and Isleworth

    Question

    Questions the minister on the steps being taken to remove drugs in HMP Parc, emphasising that action should be sustained beyond media attention.

    Minister reply

    States that enhanced gate security is being looked at, staff trained in using naloxone, and collaboration with Dyfo. Promises sustained focus even when not headline news.

  • Jamie Wallis

    Question

    Asks who is ultimately accountable for the situation in HMP Parc.

    Minister reply

    Acknowledges shared responsibility between G4S, HMPPS, local council, health board, and police, emphasising cooperation.

  • Liz Saville-Roberts PC Dwyfor Meirionnydd

    Question

    Asks if deaths in Welsh prisons should be subject to scrutiny from both Houses.

    Minister reply

    Suggests current arrangements are adequate, with local health board collaboration being important.

  • Nick Smith Lab Blaenau Gwent and Rhymney

    Question

    Questions the safety of prisoners at HMP Parc and asks for knife seizure statistics.

    Minister reply

    Cannot provide exact figures but promises to write back with information. Notes that assaults have reduced from 2015-2017 levels, though still too high.

  • Chris Bryant Lab Rhondda and Ogmore

    Question

    Asks about screening for brain injuries upon arrival in prison.

    Minister reply

    Pays tribute to the hon. Gentleman's work on this issue, noting Parc's specialist neurodivergence wing with trained officers.

  • Jessica Morden Lab Newport East

    Question

    Asks if Government actions have reassured parents and loved ones of prisoners.

    Minister reply

    Offers continued personal interest in resolving Parc issues, providing some clarity and reassurance.

  • Nia Griffith Lab Llanelli

    Question

    Asks about the impact on mental health from staffing shortages.

    Minister reply

    Reassures that extensive periods out of cell are facilitated at Parc, with close work being done to address mental health issues.

  • Richard Foord Lib Dem Honiton and Sidmouth

    Question

    Asks if officers and inmates will be safe from dangerous prisoners.

    Minister reply

    Notes lower assault rates than in 2015-2016 but states any assault is one too many. Mentions backing staff with body-worn cameras and PAVA.

  • Jim Shannon DUP Strangford

    Question

    I thank the Minister for his answers and helpful suggestions to other Members. What steps can be taken to restore confidence in the safeguarding and access to appropriate medical care for those who are imprisoned in facilities throughout this great United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland? An investigation may well conclude that there was no fault, but this matter has certainly raised questions regarding levels of care and access to medical care and facilities.

    Minister reply

    I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for his important question. I have set out the steps that we are taking in Parc to train staff to use naloxone in order to buy precious time to enable professional medical services to arrive. Across England and Wales, prisons come under my jurisdiction as Prisons Minister. In Wales, healthcare is devolved; in England, healthcare in prisons is the responsibility of and provided by the NHS. We seek to ensure that prisons have effective and close working relationships, at a macro and operational level, with their local health board or local NHS.

Shadow Comment

Chris Elmore

The shadow minister thanked the Minister for his engagement and expressed concern over Spice-related issues inside and outside the prison. He raised concerns about the impact of drug abuse on the community, staff-to-prisoner ratios, and the mental health support provided to officers dealing with deaths. He also sought clarification on the disconnect between ground realities and official statements regarding healthcare providers.

▸ Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy