Source · Select Committees · Justice Committee
Recommendation 10
10
Accepted
Public sector prison Governors operate with insufficient autonomy amidst immense operational pressures.
Conclusion
In the current climate of overcrowding, staffing pressures, and a crumbling prison estate, public sector prison Governors work under immense pressure to run their prisons as best as they can. It is clear that they are further constrained by the low level of autonomy they are awarded. It is promising to hear that the Government recognises the value of Governor autonomy, but it is unclear what specific action it will be taking to improve it. (Conclusion, Paragraph 56) 82
Government Response Summary
The government fully accepts the recommendation, committing to provide all Prison Governors with practical training and support on procurement and contract management within 12 months. This includes introducing a 'Securing Best Value' module, increasing the Inclusive Repair Threshold in new Facilities Management contracts, and providing dedicated contract management support with full training rollout planned through 2026.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
44. Formal contract management responsibilities will continue to be delivered by specialist Contract Management and Commercial teams who have the expertise to manage complex contractual obligations effectively. We recognise the importance of Governors working closely with these teams, supported by practical tools and guidance, so they can confidently secure the services and goods needed to meet operational requirements. 45. Therefore, the Government fully accepts this recommendation. All Prison Governors will receive practical training and support on procurement and contract management within 12 months. 46. Through consultation, Governors told us that they and their teams need practical support to ensure they can enable and receive the right services from suppliers. Specifically, Governors and their teams require: • Closer relationships with the functions for everyday support with supplier issues (Commercial, Facilities, Operational Contract Management) • Simple tools for low-value purchases (currently in pilot) • Roadmap of contacts and escalation points • High-level understanding of compliance requirements, such as the Procurement Act, to confidently drive adherence within their teams • Active partnership and relationships with key suppliers to ensure collaborative problem-solving, continuous improvement and alignment with local delivery needs. 47. The Enable Programme is developing capability packages to support staff at all levels, including a Governor Development Scheme. The full content of that scheme is still being developed although one module, Securing Best Value, will increase Governors’ understanding of the contracts and partnership landscape, provide practical insight into purchasing, and signpost where to access further support. Pilot sessions have already tested elements of partnership and contract management, with positive feedback informing the course design. The Securing Best Value module will be trialled in the New Year and incorporated into the Governor Induction Scheme following refinement. 48. In parallel, the new Facilities Management contracts being introduced under the Property Transformation Programme will significantly reduce the administrative burden. For example, the Inclusive Repair Threshold will rise by 25% to £3,000, covering 75% of reactive repairs within core price and including vandalism for the first time. This means most repairs will be auto-approved, enabling faster resolution. Governors will also benefit from dedicated contract management support to hold suppliers to account. We have developed a training day for Governors, with a pilot scheduled for mid-January and full rollout planned through 2026. These sessions will be attended by senior staff from Commercial, HMPPS Contract Management and MoJ Property, underlining our commitment to closer working relationships. The prison regime