NCJ Number
91119
Journal
British Journal of Criminology Volume: 23 Issue: 3 Dated: (July 1983) Pages: 209-228
Date Published
1983
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This paper traces the efforts of English correctional reformers and Parliament to establish a prison inspection system from the mid-18th century through the recent creation of an independent Chief Inspector of Prisons under the Home Office.
Abstract
While John Howard generally is considered the first advocate of prison inspections, as stated in his 'The State of Prisons' published in 1777, the concept had appeared in a bill proposed in Parliament's 1735-36 session. Legislation passed in 1779 and 1791 gave inspection powers to local justices, but they were seldom used effectively. After the Napoleonic Wars ended in 1815, penal reformers again suggested the need for prison inspectors. The Act of 1823 instituted a prisoner classification system and required each jail to be visited by justices at least 3 times a quarter. The House of Commons authorized the appointment of inspectors in the Act of 1835, linking the concept with its concern for uniformity. Parliamentary testimony in 1850 indicated the inspectors were effective, but they also had made many enemies among prison administrators. Great disparities continued to exist among prisons. The Act of 1877 nationalized the prisons and placed them under control of Prison Commissioners appointed by the Home Secretary. The Act intended that inspectors appointed by the Secretary of State should be independent, but in practice they became representatives of the Commissioners. A 1978 House of Commons expenditure report called for an independent system, as did an 1979 inquiry report into prison staff problems. The government subsequently established an independent department under the Home Office. The first Chief Inspector's report covering 1981 criticized overcrowding as well as the lack of work and recreation for inmates. Approximately 30 references are provided.