Drug Smuggling into Prisons 2021-11-09
2021-11-09
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The number of incidents involving drugs found in prisons decreased by 6% to 20,295 in the year to March 2021.
What steps are being taken to reduce drug smuggling into prisons?
In the 12 months to March 2021, the number of incidents involving drugs found in prisons decreased by 6% to 20,295.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific steps to reduce drug smuggling were not detailed beyond statistical information.
Response accuracy
Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
The question follows investment in prison security since 2019, including installation of X-ray body scanners.
What steps have been taken to ensure state-of-the-art X-ray body scanners are installed throughout the male prison estate and technology is used for rehabilitation?
Since 2019, £100 million invested in prison security; 74 X-ray body scanners installed leading to more than 10,000 positive scans. Equipment stops smuggling attempts involving drugs, weapons, and mobile phones.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q3
Direct Answer
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Context
Prison staff have worked hard throughout the pandemic to keep prisoners safe and prevent drug smuggling.
What support is provided for prison staff to prevent drug smuggling?
Investment in scanners, Prisons (Substance Testing) Act 2021 giving officers powers to test prisoners, enhanced gate security at 35 high-priority sites, and fixed portable mobile phone blocking equipment.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
134 band 3 officers left HMP Berwyn, with each officer's training costing £13,000 (£1.74 million total), highlighting the strain from drugs in prisons.
Does implementing pay review body recommendations help solve prison staffing issues?
Accepted independent pay review body's recommendations, important for keeping prisons safe and addressing staff pressure.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific steps or figures regarding pay increases were not detailed.
Response accuracy
Q5
Direct Answer
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Context
Items have been smuggled into prisons via drones.
What measures are taken to prevent the use of drones for smuggling items into prisons?
Introducing improved cell windows, netting and other physical upgrades at Glen Parva prison and across the estate to counter drone threat.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy