Transpeople (Prisons) Debate

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Department: Ministry of Justice
Friday 20th November 2015

(8 years, 11 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Andrew Selous Portrait Andrew Selous
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I agree with my hon. Friend. I note that the Samaritans has said that the media should avoid speculation about “triggers” for suicide, and I think we should be guided by what they say. As for my hon. Friend’s main point, he is absolutely right: our duty in prisons is to give everyone a hope and a future in their rehabilitation, and that is what we are determined to do.

Sarah Champion Portrait Sarah Champion (Rotherham) (Lab)
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I find it shameful, and a bad reflection on the House, that in transgender awareness week, and on Transgender Day of Remembrance, we are here not to celebrate people’s right to self-determination, but to mourn the death of Vicky Thompson. I was reassured when the Minister said that the Government were conducting a review of gender detention policy to ensure that decision making would be uniform in future. May I suggest that he work closely with the Women and Equalities Committee, which is taking evidence on issues affecting transpeople in the criminal justice system?

Andrew Selous Portrait Andrew Selous
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I will draw the hon. Lady’s helpful suggestion to the attention of the officials who are conducting the review.