It is clearly evident now that after a short time in Cornton Vale the general condition of prisoners begins markedly to improve.

Clive Fairweather

After the latest inspection in May, he has concluded that the improvement at the prison is "quite remarkable".

He said: "We were particularly pleased that remand prisoners in the recently built Ross House experience the best of conditions - indeed probably the best conditions for remand prisoners anywhere in the Scottish Prison Service.

"They are also now being offered some work opportunities, which we understand is unique."

Conditions at the institution came under the spotlight after eight inmates committed suicide in their cells between 1995 and 1998.

Clive Fairweather: "Improved almost beyond recognition"

Mr Fairweather reported a dramatic reduction in the number of self-harm incidents - 115 cases in 1999, falling to 72 in 2000 and 13 in 2001.

He also praised the new health centre, which looks like becoming a centre of excellence and the greater range of activities and programmes available throughout the prison, designed or adapted to specifically help female prisoners.

Mr Fairweather added: "What has not changed since 1996 is the condition of the women arriving at the prison gates.

"If anything their condition is even worse and they are getting younger and younger.

"Additionally, on arrival around 90% have taken illegal substances. However, it is a tribute to the work of staff that subsequently the random mandatory drug testing rate is as low as 11%.

Casualty clearing station

"It is clearly evident now that after a short time in Cornton Vale the general condition of prisoners begins markedly to improve.

"Not only is this prison providing secure custody, it is also acting as a "casualty clearing station", psychiatric ward, and now an addictions clinic as well.

He paid tribute to what has been achieved by the management team and the staff at Cornton Vale, together with support from many outside agencies.

"At a time when staff are having to handle record number of prisoners, it has been quite remarkable," he said.

A full written report of Mr Fairweather's conclusions will not be available for a few months.