Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, pursuant to her Oral Statement on prison safety and reform of 3 November 2016, Official Report, column 1067, how many prison officers were employed in privately-run prisons in (a) May 2010 and (b) November 2016.

Well-run prisons are fundamental to the proper functioning of our justice system, and a vital part of our reform plans. Private providers are required to maintain a sufficient number of staff, with the requisite level of skill and experience engaged in the provision of the Custodial Service, to ensure that the Prison is a safe, secure and decent environment. Privately Managed Prisons continue to play an important role in the prison estate and performance of all providers is closely monitored.

In May 2010, there were 2,329 full time equivalent prison custody officers employed by privately managed prisons in England and Wales. There are currently 3,170 full time equivalent prison custody officers employed by privately managed prisons in England and Wales.