7th Report – Ending the cycle of reoffending – part one: rehabilitation in prisons
Select Committee
Justice Committee
HC 469
14 November 2025
Recommendations
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Conclusions (2) Observations and findings — click to expand
18
Conclusion
Acknowledged
We agree wholeheartedly with Lord Timpson that there is too much inconsistency across the prison estate. Purposeful activity is integral to supporting rehabilitation. It is therefore disappointing that it continues to be deprioritised by HMPPS amidst other pressures. We are sympathetic to the current constraints the Government is facing regarding …
Government Response Summary
The government commits to considering and assessing the effectiveness of introducing a statutory minimum for time out of room for children in legislation, while noting existing efforts and monitoring within the Youth Custody Service.
42
Conclusion
Acknowledged
Prison libraries play a vital role in supporting rehabilitation by providing an alternative educational space for prisoners that fosters literacy and reading. However, access to these services is increasingly constrained by issues across the estate, and an unsustainable commissioning model. 87 Without recognition and action from the Government, prisons risk …
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges that increased costs mean reductions in core education delivery hours (20-25% by October 2025) are necessary, but is implementing a revised funding formula, new education contracts, and digital systems to protect quality and evaluate future delivery plans, without directly committing to preventing the loss of prison library services.