Oral Answers to Questions

Jason McCartney Excerpts

Tuesday 6th September 2016 Commons Chamber

[Elizabeth Truss]

I have been discussing this matter right across the legal profession. At the younger end we are seeing a lot more diversity; the question is how people progress through the pipeline. I would like more transparency so that we can look at people moving through the system. I have no doubt that the Lord Chief Justice and leading judges want to see more diversity. They are very keen to work with me on this agenda.

[Jason McCartney (Colne Valley) (Con)]

9. What steps the Government plan to take to tackle mental health issues in prisons.

[Sir David Amess (Southend West) (Con)]

15. What steps the Government plan to take to tackle mental health issues in prisons.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice (Dr Phillip Lee)]

Prisons must become places of rehabilitation where offenders can change their lives and turn away from crime. Addressing health needs, including mental health, is key to creating a safe and rehabilitative environment for prisoners. We are committed to meeting the mental health needs of prisoners. All prisons have procedures in place to identify, manage and support people with mental health illness.

[Jason McCartney]

Will the Minister confirm that governors will have new powers and abilities to run their own mental health and health budgets, and will that include co-commissioning of mental health services with local clinical commissioning groups?

[Dr Lee]

The approach going forward is under consideration at present. Governors have an important part to play in helping to structure healthcare services within their prisons.