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HMP Dartmoor: Radon Gas

Asked by Martin WrigleyLiberal DemocratMinistry of JusticeTabled Answered 8 July 2025UIN 63888

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, what steps she is taking to tackle the levels of radon gas at HMP Dartmoor.

Answered by Sir Nicholas Dakin

Elevated radon readings were first found at Dartmoor in 2020. HMPPS has been monitoring radon levels to manage exposure to prisoners and staff.

Dartmoor has been temporarily closed since August 2024 after monitoring results were higher than expected. We are working with specialist radon experts to investigate whether we can re-open the prison safely.

The health and safety of prisoners and staff is our top priority.

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