Prisoners could be released early if the coronavirus spreads to UK jails, the head of the Prison Officers' Association has told Sky News.

General Secretary Steve Gillan said that nationally 113 staff and about 75 prisoners were in isolation after showing symptoms although none have tested positive.

Speaking on the Sophy Ridge on Sunday programme, Mr Gillan said the Prison Service was taking steps to make ensure riots did not break out in UK prisons as they have in some Italian jails where inmates turned violent after being put in lockdown.

Image: Riots broke out in Italian jails after prisoners were put into lockdown

On inmates possibly being freed, Mr Gillan said: "There are no plans now to release prisoners but it cannot be ruled out.

"In the past, governments have done what is called an executive release. This involves low category prisoners who may be coming to the end of their sentences being released to free up prisons."


Asked if other buildings might be commandeered to accommodate prisoners, Mr Gillan said: "This has not been discussed with us yet. It is a movable feast. Everywhere will have to be looked at.

"In the past, when the prisons have been overcrowded we have commandeered prison ships so I won't rule anything out at the present time."

Mr Gillan said more prison officers may be required if staff fall sick. "There is no doubt we will need more prison officers.

"I want a proper package put in place. We might have to have a budget from government for overtime and staff falling sick. I don't want to make political points but we are already under resourced."

He said prison officers are sometimes not recognised for the valuable work they do and "this is an opportunity to recognise the bravery of staff who could be put at risk".

"There are many vulnerable cases within prisons of mental health and drug addiction and even prisoners aged 70 and over, we have 2,000 of them at the moment. Nobody wants to see disturbances like those we have seen in Italy and that is why communication is so paramount.

"We must talk to prisoners and explain why things have been done. I don't think there will be a blanket ban on visits but it will depend on each prison."

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