jul 10, 1823 - 1823 Gaols Act given Royal Assent

Description:

Gaols Act 1823

Their reports in 1819 and 1822 provided the basis of the Gaols Act of 1823. This important measure, initiated by the Home Secretary, Robert Peel, marked the beginnings of government efforts to impose general standards in prisons across the whole country.

Royal assent given 10 July 1823

Though it made no provision for new prisons, it attempted to build on and regulate the penal structure that had been created through local efforts in the counties.

Prison visits

The Act provided for visits by chaplains, salaries for gaolers, banned the use of irons and manacles, and allowed women wardens for female prisoners.

Prisons were to be inspected by local magistrates and their reports submitted to the Home Secretary who would present them to Parliament.

https://www.parliament.uk/about/living-heritage/transformingsociety/laworder/policeprisons/overview/centralcontrol/#:~:text=The%20Act%20provided%20for%20visits,women%20wardens%20for%20female%20prisoners.

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