Prisons: Population

Lord Ramsbotham
asked Her Majesty's Government:

What contingency plans they have made for when the prison population exceeds 80,000.[HL6461]

The Minister of State, Home Office (Baroness Scotland of Asthal)
We have developed long-term strategic plans and, in support of this, we are reviewing contingency plans, which include a range of options to deal with short-term population pressures. We will ensure that places are available for those prisoners committed by the courts. We continue to actively investigate options for providing further increases in capacity.