Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Ministry of Justice

Oral Answers to Questions

Jim Shannon Excerpts
Tuesday 15th September 2026

(3 weeks, 6 days ago)

Commons Chamber
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Catherine McKinnell Portrait Catherine McKinnell
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My hon. Friend raises an interesting case. There is so much work going on with technological development that can support a more efficient Prison Service. We are investing £82 million, following the Dame Lynne Owens review, because there was chronic under-investment by the previous Government in technology, and we want the Prison Service taken into this century and beyond.

Jim Shannon Portrait Jim Shannon (Strangford) (DUP)
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I welcome the Minister to her place, and wish her well in her role; I know that she will do exceptionally well. She referred to technological advances on the UK mainland. The hon. Member for Edinburgh East and Musselburgh (Chris Murray) mentioned that the justice system is devolved in Scotland; it is devolved in Northern Ireland as well, but it is important that that technology is shared. Can the Minister assure me that the Justice Minister in Northern Ireland will have access to that technology?

Catherine McKinnell Portrait Catherine McKinnell
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I appreciate the spirit in which the hon. Gentleman asks his question, and he has my assurance.