Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, what steps he is taking to revise the policy on the searching of prisoners, staff and visitors.

The national policy on the searching of prisoners, staff and visitors (PSI 07/2016 – Searching of the Person) is currently under review and a revised version is intended to be published later this year. Due to the anticipated lengthy discussion and consultation process, there is not a set timeline at this stage.

In reviewing the policy, Her Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) has consulted with the Government Legal Department and HMPPS Equalities Team. Further consultation will be undertaken with contributing groups including HMPPS women’s group. The new policy will be compliant with the Equality Act 2010, Gender Recognition Act 2004 and the European Convention on Human Rights.