LETTER: Who takes the blame for prison problems?

From Mr R. W. Powell

Sir: Could the Home Secretary give us an example of a "policy decision" taken by him, in which there was at least the possibility of it turning out badly?

Having overall responsibility for policy seems to have meant no more than saying to Derek Lewis something along the lines of: "I want fewer escapes, less drug-taking, no riots at all, if possible. See what you can do."

As policy this is admirable. It has the further advantage of leaving the Home Secretary completely fireproof if anything goes wrong.

Yours faithfully,

R. W. Powell

Newbury, Berkshire

17 October