Prisoners

Mr. Grocott
asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what proportion of prisoners are (a) in single cells, (b) two to a cell, and (c) three to a cell.

Dr. Summerskill
Of the persons in prisons in England and Wales on 8th June, 29 per cent. were accommodated in single cells, 30 per cent. two in a cell, and 15 per cent. three in a cell. 26 per cent. were sleeping in non-cellular accommodation.

Mr. Grocott
asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he has any plans to reduce the prison population; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Alexander W. Lyon
I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply which I gave on 3rd July to a Question by the hon. Member for Cheltenham (Mr. Irving).—[Vol. 894, c. 537.]