Tynwald to vote on prison rules

Stricter searches planned

Prisoners could soon be subjected to stricter searches and punishments, if Tynwald gives the go-ahead.

Members will next week be asked to vote on a set of changes granting greater powers to officers who suspect detainees of having weapons, drugs, alcohol or tobacco.

The amendments to existing custody regulations would also allow for the testing of prisoners for so-called 'legal highs'.

If the changes are approved, the maximum length of time an inmate could be disciplined in 'cellular confinement' will increase from 3 to 21 days - bringing practice in line with the UK's justice system.