Committee examines conditions at HMP Berwyn

• Inquiry: Prison provision in Wales
• Welsh Affairs Committee
• Cymraeg

Cross-border issues

In the opening session of its inquiry, the Committee focused on cross-border issues, which arise when Welsh offenders are imprisoned in England, and vice-versa.

They also heard from witnesses about the case for placing prisoners closer to their homes, and the impact of doing so on rehabilitation and reoffending.

The Committee also examined facilities for female prisoners from Wales, as well as the provision of services such as health, education and rehabilitation.   

Berwyn Prison

Berwyn Prison opened in February last year. With a capacity of over 2,000 prisoners it is the largest prison in England and Wales and the second largest in Europe. Discussions with staff and inmates are likely to focus on conditions in the prison, where prisoners come from, and provision for Welsh-speaking offenders. 

Chair's comments

Ahead of the visit, Committee Chairman David T.C. Davies MP said:   

"Having opened our inquiry with an evidence session that focused on some of the key debates relating to prisons provision in Wales, the Committee will now visit HMP Berwyn to hear the perspective of those directly affected – the Governor, staff, and inmates.

We are looking forward to gaining a practical insight into the issues that matter to them, and what can be done to ensure the prison system in Wales offers the best chance for rehabilitation."

Further information

• About Parliament: Select committees
• Visiting Parliament: Watch committees

Image: PA