IMB welcomes developments, but again raises concern about foreign national prisoners detained beyond their sentences

Publishing its annual report for 2021, when HMP Huntercombe was under a restricted regime because of Covid-19, the IMB at HMP Huntercombe welcomes progress in relation to phones and resettlement work, but continues to express concern about the number of foreign national prisoners who remain at Huntercombe after completing their sentences.  

In its annual report, the IMB notes:

• In general, prisoners continued to be treated fairly and humanely. The number of violent incidents has continued to decline year on year over the last five years.
• The resettlement hub has been fully operational all year and this has meant improvements for prisoners being progressed towards resettlement.
• In cell telephony has been installed, making it easier for prisoners to keep in touch with their families.

However, the Board again reports concern – as it did last year- about foreign national prisoners being held in prison conditions, despite having completed their sentences. The ongoing incarceration in prison of men who have passed their sentence expiry date and are held under immigration powers (IS91s) is neither fair nor humane.

IMB Huntercombe Chair, Olga Senior, said:

“The Board acknowledges the good work being done by staff at HMP Huntercombe during what has been another challenging year because of the Covid-19 pandemic. However, it is the view of the Board that too many foreign national prisoners are being detained under criminal conditions after the end of their sentences.   This is due to delays in the Home Office processing the required paperwork. The impact on these individuals and their families is significant, while there is also the issue of space being occupied that is needed.”

For further information please contact the IMB Secretariat at imbreport@justice.gov.uk or Jo Easton on 07966 253413 (for out of hours enquiries)