Prison Improvement: Digital Technology

10. What steps his Department is taking to use digital technology to improve prisons’ processes.

The Prison Service absolutely needs to be modernised, which is why we are building new digital prison services that will support the transformation of core prison operations and offender management; developing tactical AI enabled tools for frontline staff to improve accuracy and efficiency; and exploring the use of biometric technology to improve public safety.

My city of Edinburgh is a world centre for innovation in digital technology, including in areas with applications in prisons. For example, the company VisionRF produces tech that monitors signs of self harm in prisons, preventing suicides and deaths on the estate. What role does the Minister expect technology to play in improving long term performance of prisons, and will officials engage with Edinburgh researchers? Although justice policy is devolved, tech and innovation learnings can be applied to all parts of the UK.

My hon. Friend raises an interesting case. There is so much work going on with technological development that can support a more efficient Prison Service. We are investing £82 million, following the Dame Lynne Owens review, because there was chronic under investment by the previous Government in technology, and we want the Prison Service taken into this century and beyond.

I welcome the Minister to her place, and wish her well in her role; I know that she will do exceptionally well. She referred to technological advances on the UK mainland. The hon. Member for Edinburgh East and Musselburgh (Chris Murray) mentioned that the justice system is devolved in Scotland; it is devolved in Northern Ireland as well, but it is important that that technology is shared. Can the Minister assure me that the Justice Minister in Northern Ireland will have access to that technology?

I appreciate the spirit in which the hon. Gentleman asks his question, and he has my assurance.