Written question asked by Lord Beith (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 15 March 1999, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 22 March 1999. It was answered by George Howarth (Labour) on Monday, 22 March 1999 on behalf of the Home Office.

Home Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, how many prisons in England and Wales currently have drug free wings; how many have specialised drug addiction treatment programmes and staff; and if he will make a statement. - Includes figures.

Answer: Mr. Beith: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many prisons in England and Wales currently have drug free wings; how many have specialised drug addiction treatment programmes and staff; and if he will make a statement. [77281] Mr. George Howarth: It is estimated that there are now approximately 4,000 voluntary testing places covering one third of prisons. There are currently 73 centrally funded drug treatment/rehabilitation programmes being delivered by prison and specialist staff. The Prison Service is committed to the expansion of treatment programmes and to providing access to voluntary testing for all prisoners considered suitable by 2001.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 77281; 328 c27-8W
Session: 1998-99
Subjects: Drugs Medical treatments Prisons Misuse Rehabilitation Testing HM Prison Service
Contains statistics: Yes