To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is the number of prisoners released from prisons in England and Wales before the completion of their sentences on the ground of ill health in each of the last three years.

The numbers of prisoners released from their sentences by the exercise of the royal prerogative on the ground of serious illness are as follows:—

Year	Number
1989	4
1990	1
1991	Nil

Prisoners may also be released from prison on parole provided they are considered suitable for release on licence. Any ill health will be taken into account when the case is being considered.