Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, with reference to the Annual Report of the Independent Monitoring Board at HMP/YOI Styal 2021, published on 8 September 2021, over what timescale works to ensure (a) fire safety, (b) other health and safety and (c) decency is restored to all accommodation at HMP/YOI Styal will be completed.

We are working closely with the facilities management provider Amey to manage any maintenance and refurbishment projects.

We are currently producing a report which covers fire risks, decency and structural integrity of the prison and an outline business case for a fire safety improvement project.

Initially the contractor’s supply chain had a limited number of suppliers, which resulted in cost estimates for work submitted being excessive and these were rejected by the MoJ team. The MoJ has instructed that the supply chain is broadened to include more SME companies to tender for these works. This determination to use SME companies has led to some delays but it means that there are much better procurement options that will provide more effective and value for money solutions.

The local Service Delivery Manager will continue to challenge all costs which they feel are excessive and escalate them to the Regional Estates Manager, who has regular commercial and project meetings with the contractor’s management. The Service Delivery Manager also monitors the on-site performance and will check repairs and any projects to ensure they have been completed and are to the required standard.