Ministers propose converting female prison estate into cells for men

Plans would see parts of estate converted but campaigners warn it just moves the crisis from one part to another'

Ministers will seriously examine converting parts of the female prison estate into cells that can safely house male prisoners, as the government looks to reduce numbers of women in prison to ease strain on the system.

The prisons minister Catherine McKinnell is to look into the practicalities of converting female spaces to male over the coming months, after warnings from governors and experts that it would pose significant challenges.