27th June 2017
A number of reports on investigations into deaths occurring in prison custody in 2016 have recently been published by the Office of the Inspector of Prisons. IPRT notes from these reports that there has been an increased demand for the use of compassionate release due to illness. This means that those in prison who are suffering from life-limiting medical issues can be released for end of life care in the community with their families.
IPRT welcomes that the lengths of time for production of the reports into such investigations have reduced. The shorter time-frame means that the reporting mechanism is more compliant with the Principles set out in the Jordan case, such as promptness and the ability of public scrutiny. The principles of OPCAT also require a reasonable timeframe for the production of reports. Read more here.
Respect for rights in the penal system with prison as a last resort.