Prison staff told not to use inadequate cells as overcrowding worsens

Image source, PA Media Image caption, Some prisoners will be released early in October to try to tackle overcrowding (file photo)

Prison governors in England and Wales have been warned against using unsafe cells to cope with overcrowding, according to documents leaked to the BBC.

The six-page letter from the Prison Governors' Association (PGA) has been sent to members urging them to abide by the law when using cells, ensuring they meet health and safety requirements and are suitable for the number of inmates they are holding.

Prison staff told the BBC they were increasingly having to put two inmates in single occupancy cells, as overcrowding across the adult male estate worsens.

"Keeping two prisoners in cells built for one isn't ideal, but the pressure is on to maintain operational capacity.