Ensure reasonable internet and computer access for detainees
The Home Office and its contractors must ensure reasonable access to computers and the internet. Contractors must comply in full with Detention Services Order 04/2016: Detainee Access to the Internet, in particular: Computers and the internet provided for detained people's use must be maintained and fixed, if broken, within a reasonable time period, in order to allow detained people to access the internet for a minimum of seven hours per day, seven days per week. Websites containing personal internet-based email accounts must not be blocked, since this is not a prohibited category of website. Websites facilitating the provision of legal advice and representation must not be blocked, as this is not a prohibited category of website.
- DSO 04/2016 (Detainee Access to the Internet) was updated in 2024–2026, version 3.0 (Detention Services Order 04/2016 v3.0, Home Office, 2024–2026).
- No published independent assessment of internet access standards in practice has been identified to March 2026.
How was this evidence gathered?
Response
Accepted in Part
Response
Accepted in PartService contracts mandate adherence to Detention Services Orders including the mandatory provision of and regulated access to IT equipment and internet services. Fines are available for non-compliance.
Progress Timeline
Angela Eagle, Written PQ 23170 (15 January 2025): 'Completed and closed as of October 2024.'
Published Evidence
Published assessments of progress from inspectorates, select committees, official progress reports, and other sources. Source type badge indicates whether each assessment is independent or government self-reported.
Rolling refurbishment of units and upgraded library described as "relaxed and welcoming space". However, cells remain inadequately ventilated with sealed windows.
View detailed findings
Based on Independent Review of Progress visit in August 2025, following up 13 concerns from August 2024 inspection. Brook House run by Serco held 192 detainees at time of visit.
Inquiry Chair Kate Eves described government response as "inadequate" and called for a "reset" with the new government. Warned abuse "becomes a question of when, not if" it happens again.
View detailed findings
In September 2024, Kate Eves told Channel 4 News she was "disappointed with what I see as an inadequate response by the former government to an important report." She noted the inquiry cost about £20 million over four years. Home Office lawyers had argued her "recommendations are not binding."