NCJ Number
150035
Journal
International Journal of the Sociology of Law Volume: 21 Issue: 4 Dated: (December 1993) Pages: 319-333
Date Published
1994
Length
15 pages
Annotation
This analysis of the debate over privatization in corrections in the United Kingdom notes that the correctional system is a longstanding mixture of the private and public sectors and that the current debate involves both economic interests and differences over both where and on what terms private interests should be involved in corrections.
Abstract
Although the extent of privatization is easy to determine, cost issues and other issues related to effectiveness have not been definitively evaluated. Currently, trade unionists are struggling to protect their jobs and working conditions, while entrepreneurs want to maximize their profits. Other are concerned that private prisons will contribute to higher levels of incarceration. Some who believe that privatization is appropriate in some situations would question its use in cases involving maximum security. The debate is thus complex and about something more than public versus private. 17 references