Statement from HM Chief Inspector of Prisons on Queen's Speech

HM Chief Inspector of Prisons Peter Clarke said: 

“I am very disappointed that prison reform has not found a place in the Queen’s speech. The Prisons and Courts Reform bill, introduced last year, enjoyed broad parliamentary support and had made real progress through parliament until it was lost when the general election was called. 

“This is a missed opportunity to forge ahead with prison reform. The law would have required the government to respond to our findings. We will continue to report the harsh reality of what we find in our prisons – all too many of which are dangerous for prisoners and staff alike and are failing in their duty to rehabilitate and reform prisoners. We will continue to press for strong leadership and a real commitment to reform.”