The background of the code is discussed, and the elements of the code are identified, including lighting, heating, ventilation, noise, cell contents, food, safety, general hygiene, exercise/recreation, and personal hygiene. Included in this last category are bathing, washing, sanitation, hair care, hygiene supplies, clothing, and bedding. Also discussed are the purpose, applicability, and enforceability of U.S. minimum standards for Federal, State, and local prisons. European trends in formulating minimum prison standards are examined, with attention to efforts underway in the Netherlands and the Federal Republic of Germany. The methods for developing the British code are described; for example, the standards are framed so that they not only provide a specific and clear basis for objective measurement and evaluation of existing conditions, but also specify the responsibility of prison management at various levels to gather and record the information necessary for such an evaluation. Furthermore, because the draft code is concerned with prison living conditions, it has implications not only for inmates but for all who spend substantial time in the prisons. The major issues of implementation -the will and authority to effect changes -- are also analyzed. A commentary on existing standards accompanies the code. Forty-seven references and an appendix are included.