Appointment of Jonathan Hall KC as independent reviewer

Following the attacks on 3 prison officers in the separation centre at HMP Frankland on 12 April, the Lord Chancellor announced on 15 May that Jonathan Hall KC will lead the HMP Frankland Independent Review.

The terms of the independent review are as follows:

• Consider whether the facts of the incident, as established by HMPPS' internal review reveal the need for any changes to how convicted terrorists are placed onto Separation Centres.
• Consider whether the policies, operating procedures, legal framework, and relationships with other agencies that underpin Separation Centres are fit for purpose, including whether an appropriate balance is being struck between security and long-term offender management.
• Provide findings and recommendations on the basis of the above that can be implemented to reduce the likelihood of any such incident occurring in the future.

Lord Chancellor Shabana Mahmood said:

I will do whatever it takes to protect our brave prison officers. I have asked for the review to report back promptly, and to leave no stone unturned so we can prevent such an incident ever happening again.

Jonathan Hall KC

Jonathan Hall KC is the current Independent Reviewer of Terrorism Legislation and Independent Reviewer of State Threats Legislation. Mr Hall is an experienced barrister in independent practice and King's Counsel since 2014. He has been involved in complex and high-profile cases involving fraud, law enforcement, and national security.

While Mr Hall will be given access to the information he needs to deliver against the terms of reference, the review will be independent of HMPPS. The report on the Review, including any recommendations, will be submitted to the Lord Chancellor and the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Justice.