Smoking is to be banned in all prisons in England and Wales in a move that runs the risk of rioting by inmates, The Times has learnt.

A pilot project barring lighting up in all parts of jails, including exercise yards, will begin in spring next year. It will then be introduced in other prisons during a 12-month period.

Those in the South West, including Exeter and Eastwood Park Women’s Prison, will pilot the ban on all tobacco products.

The rule change comes after a campaign by staff and amid fears that the Prison Service could face compensation claims from officers who claim that they are exposed to passive smoking. It has the potential to destabilise prisons, where being able to enjoy a cigarette helps