Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, with reference to page 11 of the House Commons Library Deposited Paper, DEP2019-0490, Prison Operator Competition Contract Summary, what steps are taken to hold private prison contractors to account.

The private sector has an important role to play, and currently runs some high-performing prisons, as part of a safe, decent and secure prison estate.

Privately managed prison performance is closely monitored by robust contract management processes. Each privately managed prison has an on-site controller, employed by HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS). Controllers, together with regional contract managers review performance against performance indicators set out in the contract. Any improvement action identified may include a requirement for urgent improvement and/or financial deductions.

As well as contractual performance indicators, key statistics across public protection; safety and order; and offender reform are published annually for both the private and public estate.

Privately-managed prisons are subject to the same external inspection procedures as those in the public sector. Prisons are inspected at least once every five years by HM Inspectorate of Prisons, and face regular scrutiny by their local Independent Monitoring Board. Additionally, HMPPS internal audit and assurance scrutinises private prisons to ensure they are meeting their responsibilities.