To ask the Secretary of State for Justice when his Department will (a) resume work on the review of Prison Service Order 6300 and the arrangements governing Childcare Resettlement Licence and (b) consult organisations acting on behalf of prisoners on this policy; and if he will make a statement. (171103)

A review of Prison Service Order 6300 Release on Temporary Licence began in the spring of 2007. An internal survey of women’s prisons was conducted but further progress, including consultation with external stakeholders, has been halted due to other pressing priorities.

Work will commence again when resources permit and relevant stakeholders, including organisations acting on behalf of prisoners, will be consulted to ensure the review balances the needs of prisoners and their families as well as public confidence in the administration of justice.