Mark welcomes Scottish Government super-prison U-turn
Mark has welcomed the change of heart by the Scottish Government over the proposed women’s super-prison.
The prison, which would have cost an estimated £70Million, was due to be built in Inverclyde.
Labour MSPs have been calling for the proposed prison to be scraped, referencing the effects that prison has, on families.
65% of women in jail have children, while 76% of custodial sentences imposed on women are for periods of six months or less.
70% of women offenders who received a prison sentence of three months or less are reconvicted of an offence within two years compared to 27% given a community sentence.
Mark said:
“The overwhelming evidence shows the huge impact that locking up mothers has on children’s lives.”
“While custodial sentences are right for the most serious crimes, the high percentage of short sentences suggests that we should be looking at more community-based sentences.”
“We need to think about the effects on families and communities as to the most effective ways to reduce crime ensuring only those who are a persistent danger to public safety are given custodial sentences.”
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