Noranside closure – We need to know the real reasons

It has been confirmed that there is an intention to close Noranside Open Prison.

John Lamont MSP, Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Justice, said:

"This news will be concerning for some, although if reports that the prison is operating at just 55% capacity are to be believed, then it is something that had to be considered in these difficult economic times.

"However, we want very strong assurances that all prisoners at Noranside will be sent to Castle Huntly, which apparently can accommodate the numbers, and not merely packed off home. People have not yet forgotten the lax rules which led to a spate of escapes in recent years.

"People will also be worried whether or not an SNP Government determined to empty our jails is now taking this dogma one step further and closing them. We believe the SNP Government needs to provide us with more information and give us the real reasons behind this decision."

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