MPs question Government Minister on Prisons in Wales
At 14.10, Minister for Prisons, Parole and Probation Edward Argar will give evidence on Prisons in Wales, accompanied by Executive Director for HM Prisons and Probation Service Wales, Ian Barrow.
Meeting details
As a ‘reserved’ policy area, the UK Government has responsibility for prisons in Wales, although the Welsh Government is responsible for health, education and housing, which often intersect with criminal justice issues.
Members are likely to ask about the performance of prison services, and how effectively the UK and Welsh Governments cooperate on supporting prisoners in Wales. They may also ask for an update on the UK Government’s plans for a Residential Women’s Centre in Swansea, which is due to open in 2024.
Members are also likely to discuss Welsh prisons’ ability to cope with projected increases to the prison population, and whether recent Government measures such as extending the early release scheme up to 70 days will be successful in reducing these pressures.