Source · Select Committees · Justice Committee
Recommendation 12
12
Deferred
Paragraph: 69
Allocate substantial funding to improve conditions across the Category B prison estate.
Recommendation
We have not heard compelling evidence to support the creation of dedicated remand prisons in England and Wales—such prisons can be difficult to govern and run effective regimes within. However, some prisons are now at risk of becoming dedicated remand prisons by default as non-remanded prisoners are moved to other types of prison in order to cope with the capacity pressures caused by the growing remand population. The Ministry of Justice should set out whether this is its policy intention; and if it is not, then HMPPS needs to take steps to reduce the remand population in some of its prisons. We note also that Category B prisons often represent the worst of the prison estate, with poor, overcrowded conditions and staffing difficulties. We also recommend that as the Government invests in its prison- building programme, funding must also be allocated to deliver an improvement in conditions in the Category B estate.
Government Response Summary
The government accepted the recommendation, but the response described how Category B prisons manage their curriculum offer and ensure compliance through HMPPS contract management, without addressing the policy intention for dedicated remand prisons or funding for improving physical conditions.
Paragraph Reference:
69
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
We accept this recommendation. All Category B prisons undertake a needs analysis when designing their curriculum offer and an annual delivery plan is agreed each year between the establishment and the education provider. Governors work with their regional Heads of Learning and Skills to ensure they are designing the right provision for their population. Curriculum guidance and support is available to all establishments and that support and guidance reflects the need for short courses to be in place, according to the needs of the prison population. Ongoing assurance activity by HMPPS contract management team will check that Category B establishments are complying by June 2023.