Written question asked by Harry Cohen (Labour) on Wednesday, 28 June 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 5 July 2000. It was answered by Lord Boateng (Labour) on Wednesday, 5 July 2000 on behalf of the Home Office.

Home Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, when the windows in cells in Holloway Prison will be changed to make it impossible to attach a ligature to them; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Mr. Cohen: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department when the windows in cells in Holloway Prison will be changed to make it impossible to attach a ligature to them; and if he will make a statement. [128741] Mr. Boateng: The Prison Service is currently testing prototype improved window ventilators at Holloway prison. These will be evaluated to assess all potential benefits, including the effectiveness of their anti-ligature properties. Following the assessment, funding will be sought through the Prison Service's normal capital appraisal process for installation of the most appropriate ventilators. Assuming these funds (likely to be of the order of £8 million) are forthcoming, a rolling installation programme for all cells at Holloway will be developed. Completion of such a programme could take three to four years.

Secondary information