WELCOME FOR END TO PAYOUTS FOR PRISONERS.

WELCOME FOR END TO PAYOUTS FOR PRISONERS.

£50 MILLION SAVED FOR INVESTMENT IN FRONT LINE SERVICES

SNP MSP Nigel Don – a member of the Scottish Parliament’s Justice Committee – has welcomed the first step in fast-tracking legislation which will save up to £50 million in future payouts to prisoners.

The Justice Committee has approved a one-year time limit to apply in any future cases where compensation claims are made against Scottish ministers under the Scotland Act.

The legislation follows Scottish Government efforts with Westminster to secure new legislation after a high court judgement exposed the Government to major compensation payouts to prisoners.

Commenting Mr Don said:

“I welcome the legislation as it brings Scotland into the same position as England and Wales'

“No one wants to see compensation payments made unnecessarily to prisoners. I would hope that it can come into effect as soon as possible and I am pleased that the Cabinet Secretary shares my views on the importance of making the £50 million available at the earliest opportunity.'

"Too much public money has already been paid out to prisoners, some of whom have committed appalling crimes. That is why we needed to bring this situation to an end. The public expects that we should do this as quickly as possible.

“I also welcome the constructive way in which all parties have been able to work together across Parliaments and Governments to take this forward."