Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask Her Majesty's Government how many government-operated prisons are currently without (1) up-to-date fire risk assessments, or (2) sufficient first aid cover, in place.

In accordance with the Fire Safety Order 2005, all government-operated prison buildings have fire risk assessments which are reviewed periodically. Sufficient first aid cover in the prison estate is provided by trained first aiders, and the number of those required in each establishment is achieved via a First Aid Risk Assessment of need. Prisoners also receive first aid/medical cover through on-site healthcare teams or local hospitals when required.

In accordance with the Fire Safety Order 2005, all privately operated prisons have fire safety risk assessments which are reviewed as part of the annual statutory compliance audits by the authority. There are contractual requirements in place for first aid and fire safety, the levels required are determined by prison operators. These are then checked periodically by the prison operator and an authority representative.

In privately managed prisons, annual assurance checks are carried out by representatives of HM Prison and Probation Service. Where any issues are highlighted, these are addressed with the contractor and, if necessary, action is taken to ensure that prisons meet their legal and contractual obligations.