Transgender Prisoners 2023-02-21
2023-02-21
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is questioning the effectiveness of the Department's policy on allocating transgender prisoners in England and Wales, referencing a recent strengthening of policies.
What assessment has been made of the effectiveness of the Department's policy on the allocation of transgender prisoners in England and Wales?
Since the 2019 strengthening of our policy, there have been no assaults or sexual assaults committed by transgender women in women's prisons. Last year, the policy was further strengthened.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer does not provide a detailed assessment of policy effectiveness beyond mentioning lack of incidents post-policy changes.
Response accuracy
Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
The MP welcomes the new guidance issued by the Government regarding the accommodation of transgender prisoners but asks for clarification on a principle that no biological male should be imprisoned in women's prisons.
I welcome the fact that the Government are issuing new guidance on the accommodation of such prisoners, but does my right hon. Friend agree that having no biological male imprisoned in a woman's prison should be a strong principle henceforth?
Safety must come first. Following the policy updates, transgender women with male genitalia will not be held in the general women's estate except in truly exceptional circumstances. Exemptions require sign-off by a Minister to ensure they are considered only in the most truly exceptional cases.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP recognises the safety issues for those identifying as transgender and seeks to ensure a consistent policy strategy throughout the United Kingdom, particularly in Northern Ireland.
Has the Minister had any opportunity to talk to the police and the Department of Justice in Northern Ireland to ensure that we in Northern Ireland and the Northern Ireland Assembly have a policy that follows the route and focus here?
I have not had a chance to have that conversation. There are differences in different parts of the United Kingdom, but I believe our policy here in England and Wales is the right one. It is respectful to everybody, but makes sure we are making safety paramount.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer does not confirm any discussion with Northern Irish authorities or commitment to a uniform strategy.
Response accuracy