Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, if he will ensure that restricted access to books for prisoners is not an obstacle to preparation for employment; and if he will make a statement.

We firmly believe that giving offenders the skills and training they need to get and keep jobs on release reduces their likelihood of re-offending. This will include providing access to books, subject to the constraints of operating within a custodial environment.

Prisoners undertaking education courses (including distance learning) are provided with relevant course materials and set books.