PART 9SECURITY AND CONTROL

Searching of prisoners88

1

Every prisoner may be searched by an officer in accordance with the provisions of this rule.

2

A search of a prisoner may take the form of–

a

an examination of the prisoner’s person and clothing but without removal of the clothing;

b

the removal and examination of the prisoner’s clothing;

c

the visual examination of the external parts of his body following removal of the prisoner’s clothing; or

d

if the prisoner agrees, the visual examination of his open mouth without the use of force or any instrument.

3

A search of a prisoner shall be carried out–

a

only by an officer who is of the same sex;

b

as expeditiously and decently as possible;

c

in the case of a search of the type mentioned in paragraph (2)(b) and (c)–

i

by 2 officers of the same sex; and

ii

outwith the sight of any other prisoner; and

d

in accordance with any other conditions as may be specified in a direction by the Secretary of State.

4

A prisoner may be searched at such times and in such circumstances as the Governor considers necessary.

5

Subject to paragraph (2)(d), the power to search conferred by this rule shall not be construed as authorising the physical examination of a prisoner’s body orifices.