Written question asked by Fergus Montgomery (Conservative), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 20 March 1997. It was answered by Ann Widdecombe (Conservative) on Thursday, 20 March 1997 on behalf of the Home Office.

Home Office

Question: How many prisons the Minister for Prisons has visited; and what assessment she has made about the management of those prisons. (Failed OPQ) - Includes figure.

Answer: Sir Fergus Montgomery: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many prisons the Minister responsible for prisons has visited; and what assessment she has made about the management of those prisons. [19805] Miss Widdecombe: Since becoming Prisons Minister I have visited all 129 Prison Service establishments in England and Wales. During my visits, I have seen much to give me cause for encouragement. Against the backdrop of a rising prison population, the Prison Service has maintained an excellent security record, achieved a reduction in assaults and successfully implemented reforms to release on temporary licence, a national system of incentives and earned privileges, and mandatory drugs testing. I congratulate all concerned.

Secondary information