Rapid Deployment Cells Programme 2026-09-15
2026-09-15
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
▸
Context
Concerns over the speed of delivery for the rapid deployment cells programme, which aims to increase prison capacity.
What steps is the government taking to increase the speed of the delivery of the rapid deployment cells programme?
We are committed to delivering 14,000 additional prison places by 2031. To date, we have delivered 1,000 additional rapid deployment cells across 20 sites, with plans to deliver a further 400 by the end of 2027.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Steps to increase the speed of delivery
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
▸
Context
Concerns over stalled projects in the rapid deployment cells programme due to the collapse of the contractor ISG and the need for a long-term pipeline to support the programme.
Given the stalled projects due to the collapse of the contractor ISG and the need for a long-term pipeline, will the Minister ask her officials to review affordability criteria to bring more projects forward?
My hon. Friend is rightly interested in ensuring the plans are delivered. We are working flat out to deliver them on time—or, where we can, ahead of time. I will certainly look into the issues he raises.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Specific review of affordability criteria
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
▸
Context
Concerns over the underutilization of HMP Millsike due to staffing issues and the replacement of lost prison officers.
Why are the Government not making use of fully certified cells, and can the Minister guarantee that she will replace the 1,600 prison officers lost under Labour by next year?
About 80% of Millsike's capacity is in use. Occupancy will continue to increase as and when that is appropriate and safe, and as and when we have the correct culture and processes established on the site. We are working as hard as we can to make up for the staffing shortages left by the previous Government.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Guarantee to replace 1,600 prison officers by next year
Response accuracy