To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department when new evidence is due to be issued about the categorisation and allocation of female prisoners to penal establishments; what factors gave rise to the review; whether it will consider the large numbers of absconders from open prisons; and if he will make a statement.

Guidance will be issued to governors shortly, following an examination of procedures which was prompted by the need to establish a more systematic and consistent basis for allocating female prisoners, particularly as between closed and open establishments. The risk of absconding is an important factor to be taken into account in considering an individual's suitability for open conditions.