Jo Stevens MP, Labour’s Shadow Minister for Prisons and Probation, responding to the Chief Inspector of Prisons Nick Hardwick criticising the Ministry of Justice for attempting to interfere with his independence, said:

“Nick Hardwick’s comments are extremely concerning.

“At a time when our prisons are in crisis, with too much of the estate understaffed, overcrowded and violent, it is fundamental that the inspections of our prisons remain independent, comprehensive and thorough. Any hint from Michael Gove and his Ministers that they have attempted to influence or control these inspections is very alarming and something that must be investigated.

“Labour, the Chief Inspector and the Justice Select Committee have long said that the inspection regime should be strengthened. It is now time Ministers listened and took steps to review the relationship between inspectorates and the MoJ.”