Member

The prison population remains within a few hundred places of criminal justice collapse. I learned recently just how challenging the situation is when we had to temporarily close HMP Dartmoor last week, taking around 200 places out of the prison estate. Although we are able to withstand that loss of capacity, any further challenges, be that a further loss of supply or an unexpected increase in demand, could tip us into crisis. Until this measure takes effect, we will continue to monitor the prison population closely and be ready to introduce further emergency measures if required. We are not out of the woods yet, but I am proud to be part of a Government who will take the necessary action and brave decisions necessary to protect the public. The change that we are debating today is the only safe way forward in the time we have available to act. I beg to move.