Oral Answers to Questions

Maria Caulfield Excerpts

Tuesday 25th April 2017 Commons Chamber

[Elizabeth Truss]

First, I commend my hon. Friend on his fantastic Bill. We have recently written to governors about their new powers over areas such as preparing prisoners for release, education and employment. Housing is one issue covered in that communication.

[Maria Caulfield (Lewes) (Con)]

9. What improvements there have been at HMP Lewes since that prison was placed in special measures.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice (Mr Sam Gyimah)]

A new governor was appointed in January 2017 and is developing an action plan in response to the issues in Lewes prison.

[Maria Caulfield]

I thank the Minister for his reply. Could he set out how the Government’s prison reform will help HMP Lewes—particularly prisoners who are trying to stop reoffending, and the prison officers, who do a difficult job?

[Mr Gyimah]

A key part of our reform programme is adding 2,500 staff to our Prison Service. As far as HMP Lewes is concerned, we have made 24 job offers for additional prison officers since November. Starting pay at HMP Lewes is now £26,500, and along with more prison officers, that will enable the prison to support and challenge prisoners to turn their lives around.