Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, what recent estimate he has made of when HMP Dartmoor will return to its full operational capacity following the detection of radon gas in that prison.

HMP Dartmoor is currently operating at a reduced capacity due to the presence of radon gas in accommodation areas. This is a temporary measure while work to permanently reduce radon levels is completed.

The prison will return to its full operational capacity at the earliest possible opportunity following the completion of remedial works to ensure that the accommodation can be safely occupied. A design solution for the remedial works is currently being designed and tested.

The health and safety of staff and prisoners remains a top priority for the Department. Testing across all residential areas continues and prisoners have been removed from accommodation where readings were returned at above actionable levels. At all times, the safety and wellbeing of staff and prisoners will be at the heart of our decision making and we are guided by experts in this area. There are no adverse safety implications to staff or prisoners who remain on the site.