Written question asked by Harry Cohen (Labour), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 20 March 1997. It was answered by Ann Widdecombe (Conservative) on Thursday, 20 March 1997 on behalf of the Home Office.

Home Office;Prison Service

Question: Pursuant to his letter of 12th March, in respect of the purpose-built prison barge, if Crown immunity will apply to the operation of the barge. - Text of letter from Richard Tilt of Prison Service.

Answer: Mr. Cohen: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, pursuant to his letter of 12 March, in respect of the purpose-built prison barge, if Crown immunity will apply to the operation of the barge; and if he will make a statement. [21231] Miss Widdecombe: Responsibility for this matter has been delegated to the Director General of the Prison Service, who has been asked to arrange for a reply to be given. Letter from Richard Tilt to Mr. Harry Cohen, dated 20 March 1997: The Home Secretary has asked me to reply to your recent Question about the application of Crown immunity to the purpose-built prison barge. The floating prison will not be classed as an offshore facility. The Health and Safety at Work Act (1974) and all relevant health and safety regulations will apply to the floating prison in the same way as other prisons, and Health and Safety Executive inspectors and environmental health officers will have a right of access.

Secondary information