 Many prisoners are randomly tested for drugs each month |
Illegal drug use in the Isle of Man's prison has dropped by nearly two-thirds in three years, according to new figures. Regular random drug tests carried out revealed drug abuse has fallen from 20.9% in 2004 to 7.62% in 2006 - which equates to a drop of 63%.
Every month 10% of prisoners are asked to provide urine samples, which are then tested for all illegal substances.
At present 32% of inmates at the jail are inside for using or dealing drugs.
Minister Martyn Quayle said: "This reduction demonstrates the success of the prison management's hardline policy on drugs.
 |  Prisoners come up with ever more ingenious ways of getting hold of drugs |
"It is especially pleasing because last year's figure was below the UK prison service's target of 10%, and efforts will continue to maintain the low level.
"We have increased drugs searches - with all visitors being searched and their property and outer clothing x-rayed.
"In addition, we are recruiting a second dog handler which will double the number of times dogs can carry out cell and other searches for drugs."
Additional measures to combat drug abuse include installing cameras in the visitors' room and more staff training in the latest drug search techniques.
Rewards system
According to Mr Quayle, 56% of prisoners at the jail have a history of drug use.
He added: "There isn't a prison in Britain which is drug-free and prisoners come up with ever more ingenious ways of getting hold of drugs.
"We know a wrap of heroin can be hidden under a stamp and drugs have been thrown over the wall, hidden in mail, in felt-tip pens, clothing or even passed to a prisoner in a kiss."
If prisoners provide a negative result when they are drug tested they are rewarded with phone credits. They lose privileges if a sample is positive or if they refuse to provide one.
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