asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will publish any contingency plans he has to safeguard prisons from the worst effects of any protest action by prison staff; in what circumstances the contingency plans would be used; and if he will make a statement.

While I hope that there will be no disruption of this vital public service, necessary plans exist to minimise so far as possible the impact of industrial action on prisoners themselves, the courts and the safety of the public. The plans will be announced if and when they are needed.