Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, what estimate he has made of the number of (a) fathers and (b) mothers in prison who have children under the age of 18.

The information as requested is not collected or held centrally and cannot be verified. We acknowledge the importance of data collection to illuminate the prevalence and needs of those women prisoners with children, dependent or otherwise, as well as pregnancy, and to inform policy and practice in this area. Where an offender does choose to disclose, data is collected, although this data does not provide detailed information of the child’s age or whether they are dependents. However, the current system of safeguarding should capture children most at risk, including children for whom safe, alternative care arrangements have not yet been put in place.

The government also recognises that the children of offenders can be disadvantaged, and we continue to explore ways in which to improve their lives and to adequately support their needs. We remain committed to ensuring that all children get the help and support they need to live fulfilled and happy lives.