Context
There is significant concern about the spread of COVID-19 within prisons, prompting organizations to urge the government to reduce overcrowding and slow transmission.
Question
Christine Jardine raised serious concerns regarding potential virus transmission among both prisoners and staff. She questioned whether the Government would urgently address prison overcrowding by releasing short-term inmates and suspending new admissions to prevent further spread of the virus.
Answer from Lucy Frazer (Minister of State for Prisons)
Lucy Frazer acknowledged efforts to reduce prison populations in line with Public Health England's advice, mentioning various strategies including releases, natural population reduction, and additional accommodation. She emphasized work on remand proceedings, court hearings speed-up for those serving sentences, and the promotion of non-custodial orders as part of a multi-faceted approach.
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