Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what discussions the Secretary of State for Justice has had with the Prison Officers' Association regarding recruitment and retention in the Prison Service, and when he next plans to meet staff representatives.

Much communication has taken place between the Secretary of State and the Prison Officers’ Association through written correspondence. The Secretary of State spoke with the POA on 21 June 2017 and met with them on 29 June 2017 to discuss several important subjects, including Prison Officer recruitment and retention.

The Prisons Minister also plans to meet with the POA on 23 October 2017.