Written question asked by Kevin McNamara (Labour) on Monday, 21 February 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 6 March 2000. It was answered by Adam Ingram (Labour) on Monday, 6 March 2000 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, on what date instructions were last issued at HMP Maghaberry, governing the receipt by prisoners of printed materials dealing with political subjects; and if he will place a copy in the Library. - (Holding answer 2 March 2000).

Answer: Mr. McNamara: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland on what date instructions were last issued at HMP Maghaberry, governing the receipt by prisoners of printed materials dealing with political subjects; and if he will place a copy in the Library. [111942] Mr. Ingram: [holding answer 2 March 2000]: There are no specific instructions in existence regarding the receipt by prisoners of printed materials dealing with political subjects at Maghaberry Prison. The admission of all printed material to HMP Maghaberry is governed by Rule 67 of the Prison and Young Offenders Centre Rules (Northern Ireland) 1995. HMP Maghaberry is a fully integrated prison with no segregation on grounds of political, religious or paramilitary affiliation. As a result, the Governor may use his discretion, under Prison Rule 67, to refuse admission to printed material dealing with political subjects if he believes it could prejudice the security, or control, of the prison by raising tensions between such affiliates.

Secondary information