Written question asked by Lord Carlile of Berriew (Liberal Democrat), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 21 March 1997. It was answered by Ann Widdecombe (Conservative) on Friday, 21 March 1997 on behalf of the Home Office.

Home Office;Prison Service

Question: What has been the precentage increase in the prison population for each of the last 60 months for which figures are available; what increases he estimates will take place in each of the next five years. - Text of letter from Richard Tilt of Prison Service inc fact that will write later.

Answer: Mr. Alex Carlile: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what has been the percentage increase in the prison population for each of the last 60 months for which figures are available; what increases he estimates will take place in each of the next five years; and if he will make a statement. [21585] Miss Widdecombe: Responsibility for this matter has been delegated to the Director General of the Prison Service, who has been asked to arrange for a reply to be given. Letter from Richard Tilt to Mr. Alex Carlile, dated 21 March 1997: The Home Secretary has asked me to reply to your recent question about the prison population. I will write to you later.

Secondary information