Written question asked by Peter Lloyd (Conservative) on Wednesday, 19 April 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 3 May 2000. It was answered by Lord Boateng (Labour) on Wednesday, 3 May 2000 on behalf of the Home Office.

Home Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, if women prisoners who have been employed inside prisons and give birth are paid maternity pay. - Including ref to Prisoner Pay Manual 1992 and Standing Order 6 regulations 1993.

Answer: Sir Peter Lloyd: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if women prisoners who have been employed inside prisons and give birth are paid maternity pay. [120620] Mr. Boateng: Women prisoners who have been employed within prisons and give birth are paid an allowance under regulations set out in the Prisoner Pay Manual 1992 and Standing Order 6 regulations 1993. Under these regulations, scope exists for establishments to set their own rates of pay in addition to the prescribed minima. Women prisoners are entitled to child benefit if their babies remain with them. Consideration is currently being given to introducing specific maternity pay where a woman prisoner is unable to work as a consequence of pregnancy, childbirth or caring for a child.

Secondary information