Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, what assessment he has made of the safety of the use of PAVA spray in youth offender institutions.

In April 2025, the Government announced a limited rollout of PAVA incapacitant spray in the three young offender institutions (YOIs) for 15 to 18-year-olds (Werrington, Wetherby and Feltham A). It was determined that this was a necessary measure to protect children and members of staff at risk of serious and life changing injuries from incidents of violence.

The potential use of PAVA spray in YOIs was the subject of lengthy consideration. This included research from available sources, and work with specialists across HM Prison and Probation Service and beyond. The advice of medical advisors and legal experts was taken into account in reaching the decision.

PAVA is now available to specially selected and trained groups of staff at Werrington, Wetherby, and Feltham A, to facilitate an immediate local response to a serious incident. It is only to be used as a last resort, in response to an immediate threat of serious harm.