Debates between Andrew Selous and Bob Blackman during the 2015-2017 Parliament

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Andrew Selous and Bob Blackman
Tuesday 14th June 2016

(8 years, 4 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Andrew Selous Portrait Andrew Selous
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Yes. I can tell the hon. Gentleman, who I know takes a serious interest in these issues, that there is a lot to be encouraged about. I am going around the country talking to employers, often taking them into prisons. I am particularly keen on the academy model, where employers come into prisons and train prisoners there. The prisoners then go out on day release to gain work experience in that business, and as they leave the prison gate they do so with a contract of employment and can go into work. That helps to secure their accommodation and to get their lives back on an even keel.

Bob Blackman Portrait Bob Blackman (Harrow East) (Con)
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18. One problem faced by ex-offenders is not having a secure home to go to once they are released from prison, and as a result they cannot get a job. What further steps can my hon. Friend take to ensure that people leaving prison are leaving for a secure home and can then seek proper employment?

Andrew Selous Portrait Andrew Selous
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My hon. Friend is right to draw the link between accommodation and employment. If more prisoners were able to pay a deposit of perhaps the first month’s rent on leaving prison, that would help. By the same token, if we can get more offers of employment to prisoners as they come out, they will find it easier to secure accommodation.