Prison Capacity 2024-05-14
2024-05-14
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The National Audit Office warned that prisons would run out of space by 2023, and only a quarter of the promised 20,000 places have been delivered.
Why has the Government proved incapable of averting this crisis?
As a result of the record amount of investment in prisons, we brought on HMP Fosse Way, and we have HMP Five Wells. I invite the hon. Member to visit them, because these are excellent, modern prisons with fantastic rehabilitative conditions, providing an excellent opportunity to keep the public secure and prisoners rehabilitated. We will also be rolling out HMP Millsike. We have planning permission for HMP Gartree. We are also rolling out houseblocks at Stocken, Rye Hill and Guys Marsh; and there will be further ones at Gartree.
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Assessment & feedback
Explanation of specific steps taken to address the crisis was avoided.
Inviting Hon. Member To Visit Prisons
Discussing Future Projects
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Prison officers are dealing with young and often aggressive people, raising concerns about the current retirement age of 68.
What consideration has my right hon. and learned Friend given to reducing the retirement age in line with policing?
Prison officers are the absolute backbone of the system, and it is absolutely right that we should recruit and retain. I am pleased to say that in 2023 we recruited an additional 1,600 officers and, just as importantly, the resignation rate is coming down, from 10.5% to 8.5%. That is really positive. On my hon. Friend's point about retirement, it is worth knowing that the employee contribution rate to pensions for prison officers is one of the most competitive in the public sector. That is exactly as it should be.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific consideration regarding reducing the retirement age was avoided.
Discussing Recruitment And Retention
Highlighting Pension Contribution Rate
Response accuracy