We are approaching the first anniversary of the tragic death of a newborn baby there. A woman at the jail gave birth on September 27. The prison director Vicky Robinson later confirmed the baby died. Inevitably there is deep anxiety that as yet we have heard nothing from any of the 11 panels set up to investigate the incident.
Enquiries to the local MP and the prison authorities have failed to produce any satisfactory reason for the delay. One would also like to know exactly what provision has been made for the 40 per cent of women leaving Bronzefield who, we have recently been told, have no home to go to.
On the basis of this evidence I would say the moral state of the UK is seriously in question.
Reverend Andrew McLuskey
Editor's reply
Dear Andrew
There are many severe problems in prisons and the terrible tragedy you highlight is one of far too many fatalities that occur inside. But what happens outside is important, and you are right to highlight the lack of suitable accommodation for released prisoners.
This affects freed male inmates elsewhere in London as well as the women of Bronzefield, and makes it harder for them to rehabilitate. That’s not in anyone’s interest and more housing must be provided.
Martin Bentham, Home Affairs Editor
Bare is thy sting
With reference to your article suggesting how much happier we would be if we walked around barefoot , I can only comment that nobody would go along with that idea if they had ever landed on a wasp. I did that when walking in my garden a few years ago. It was bloody painful!
Indoors yes, but outdoors never.
Maggie Dyer
