AN URGENT investigation is under way following the controversy over security at Belmarsh Prison.

The move follows a gaffe, last month, which saw a member of staff walk away from the jail with a set of keys, creating a massive security scare at the site which is home to terrorists, rapists and paedophiles.

A new system of locks were recently fitted at the prison at a cost of more than £70,000 £30,000 more than originally estimated.

A written question was tabled in parliament by Erith and Thamesmead MP John Austin, which questioned Home Office minister Hilary Benn, on what is being done to prevent further lapses. Mr Benn responded by telling parliament Belmarsh would be reviewing its management of jail keys and governors have been told to report any deficiencies in the system.

A disciplinary investigation into the incident has also been commissioned by the prison.

At the time of the incident, there was no indication of how or why the member of staff had walked out with the keys but a prison insider said it was "probably an accident".

Home Secretary David Blunkett recently paid a secret visit to Belmarsh after Mr Austin wrote to him over allegations Muslim remand prisoners were being treated inhumanely by staff.

July 9, 2002 12:00