Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, whether his Department plans to introduce PAVA incapacitant spray into (a) Young Offender Institutions, (b) Secure Training Centres and (c) Secure Children’s Homes.

Following the roll-out of PAVA spray to the adult male estate, for use where necessary in response to serious disorder, HM Prison and Probation Service is examining the case for making it available to young offender institutions in the youth estate. This includes detailed consideration of the medical and legal implications, including any age-related factors.

Full account is being taken of the evaluation of implementation in the adult male estate. As with any potential safety measure, all available evidence is being assessed, looking at the many complex considerations, to enable an informed decision to be taken.

PAVA spray is not being considered for use in Secure Training Centres or Secure Children’s Homes.