PRISON CLOSURES

Early day motion 1335, tabled 24 January 2011 by Elfyn Llwyd (Plaid Cymru). Signed by 30 members.

That this House notes with regret the Government's decision to close HM Prison Ashwell and cease using HM Prison Lancaster Castle as a prison; further notes that in the last 20 months over 20 million has been spent on refurbishment at HM Prison Ashwell; acknowledges that 20 per cent. savings in the 2011-12 budget have already been identified without impact to security or staffing levels; further notes that HM Prison Lancaster Castle is currently ranked second in the country for resettlement of offenders; further notes that the success of staff at HM Prison Lancaster Castle in reducing re-offending has had a major impact on cutting crime in the North West area; commends the staff and Prison Officers Association branches at HM Prison Ashwell and HM Prison Lancaster Castle for their work; and calls on the Government to re-examine its decision and keep these prisons open.

Signatures by party: Labour 26, Plaid Cymru 3, Liberal Democrat 1.