Committee publication · Correspondence · 19 May 2026
Correspondence from Lord Timpson, Minister for Prisons, Probation and Reducing Reoffending, dated 15 May 2026: Investigation into radon exposure at HMP Dartmoor
From: Justice Committee
Summary
Lord Timpson updates the Justice Committee on the Health and Safety Executive's investigation into radon exposure at HMP Dartmoor. The HSE has decided to issue a Crown Censure against HMPPS on 13 May 2026. The prison was temporarily closed due to elevated radon levels in non-accommodation areas, and HMPPS is assessing whether it can safely reopen. The Minister states that staff and prisoner welfare is a priority and that HMPPS monitors radon across its estate.
Key findings
- HSE notified HMPPS on 13 May 2026 of its intention to issue a Crown Censure following investigation into radon management at HMP Dartmoor
- HMP Dartmoor was temporarily closed due to elevated radon gas levels detected in non-accommodation areas
- HMPPS is conducting ongoing safety and feasibility assessments to determine whether the prison can be safely reopened
- HMPPS monitors radon levels across the entire HMPPS estate and implements mitigation measures under the Ionising Radiations Regulations 2017
- Staff who have been redeployed from Dartmoor will be appropriately informed alongside prisoners about radon exposure risks
Tone
ProceduralTopics
Key actors
Lord Timpson, Health and Safety Executive (HSE), His Majesty's Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS), Andy Slaughter MP, Justice Select Committee
Notable line
“On 13 May 2026, the HSE notified HMPPS of its intention to issue a Crown Censure and we wanted to share …”
Key Quotes
“… the wellbeing of staff and prisoners is our priority, and HMPPS will ensure that those affected are appropriately informed, including staff who have since been redeployed.”
“HMPPS made a decision to temporarily close HMP Dartmoor due to elevated levels of radon gas in non-accommodation areas.”
“We continue to assess safety and feasibility at HMP Dartmoor to determine if it can be reopened as a prison.”
Source · parliament.uk record ↗