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Parc Prison
13 May 2024
Lead MP
Edward Argar
Debate Type
Ministerial Statement
Tags
NHSEmploymentMental Health
Other Contributors: 12
At a Glance
Edward Argar raised concerns about parc prison in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Government Statement
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Shadow Comment
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.
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