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Justice Secretary criticised over jail disturbances

Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill
Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill

Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill has been accused of refusing to take responsibility for a series of disturbances at a north-east prison.

Labour MSP Richard Baker said it was “astounding” that he was evading key questions about recent trouble at HMP Grampian In Peterhead and referring them to the Scottish Prison Service. (SPS)

The north-east politician lodged a parliamentary question to ask the government what discussions it has had with governor Jim Farish about security breaches and if it was providing additional support.

But Mr MacAskill, who campaigned for the new £140million Peterhead jail which holds men, women and young offenders, deferred to SPS chief executive Colin McConnell.

Mr Baker raised the issue after about 40 prisoners went on the rampage in a 14-hour stand-off in the prison’s Ellon Hall last month.

He said: “From Mr MacAskill’s answer it would appear that the government have not had any discussions with the prison service on this very serious issue.

“This is astounding given the serious nature of the disorder and is an abdication of responsibility if true.

“The cabinet secretary cannot simply wash his hands of these major problems.

“The government spent millions of pounds on this prison and it is in everyone’s interest that they ensure that it operates in an efficient and more importantly safe manner.”

Mr McConnell said SPS had taken a “well-tested preparation approach” to the opening of the jail and the management team had been provided with assistance.

“Appropriate levels of support will be maintained to ensure that the local team are able to bring the prison back to full operation in a planned and sustainable way,” he added.

Independent councillor Alan Buchan has called for a public inquiry into problems at the jail.

He wants the SPS to explain decisions made during the development of the complex and outline what steps are being taken to quell unrest.

The government has said Mr MacAskill has no plans to publish a report on the disturbance or make a statement to parliament.