Written question asked by David Drew (Labour) on Monday, 31 March 2008, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 2 April 2008. It was answered by Maria Eagle (Labour) on Tuesday, 22 April 2008 on behalf of the Ministry of Justice.

Gloucester Prison

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice if he will make a statement on the recent report of the Independent Monitoring Board on Gloucester Prison; and what the implications of its recommendations are for the future of the prison.

Answer: I am very grateful to the Independent Monitoring Board for the work they do on behalf of Gloucester prison. The report is thorough and generally very positive; highlighting several areas of recognised good practice and acknowledging Gloucester's achievements in gaining level 4 status and receiving the most improved prison award in 2007. I will formally respond to the report shortly.Gloucester continues to perform well in key areas, despite the physical constraints of Victorian buildings and a town centre location, and I have no reason to suppose that it will not continue to do so. The governor and staff are committed to maintaining and improving upon this performance, providing the best possible opportunities for prisoners to address their offending behaviour in a supportive and safe environment.

Secondary information