Controversial Firm Awarded Major Scottish Prisoner Escort Contract
A substantial prisoner escort contract valued at over £415 million has been granted to Mitie, a company that has faced significant criticism for security shortcomings and allegations of racism. This decision comes as the current contractor, GEOAmey, is set to be replaced next year following a series of high-profile operational failures in transporting prisoners across Scotland.
Security Lapses and Racism Allegations Surround New Contractor
Mitie, the incoming firm, has been embroiled in several controversies that raise serious questions about its suitability for such a critical role. Last week, inspectors issued warnings regarding guards at HMP Millsike in East Yorkshire, a prison managed by Mitie, who were repeatedly failing to secure gates and doors, compromising facility safety. This Category C jail, which opened in March 2025 at a cost of £400 million, has been described by the Independent Monitoring Board as presenting "a deeply concerning picture" due to inconsistent gate security and an unsafe environment that now requires inspectors to visit in pairs.
Furthermore, in 2022, the Home Office launched an investigation into claims that Mitie staff sent racist WhatsApp messages targeting Syrian refugees and former Labour MP Diane Abbott. At the time, Mitie responded by suspending the involved employees and asserting that there is "no place for racism, bullying, or discrimination" within its operations. Despite these assurances, the firm's track record has sparked alarm among political figures and watchdog groups.
Political and Public Backlash Over Contract Award
Scottish Tory justice spokesman Liam Kerr has voiced strong objections to the contract award, highlighting the substantial financial implications and public safety concerns. He stated, "Given the eye-watering amount of money on the line, taxpayers will expect the contractor to securely transport criminals and keep the public safe. After the catalogue of blunders, public confidence is at rock bottom. SNP ministers must prove they’ve learned the lessons and deliver real value for money for Scotland’s taxpayers."
The transition to Mitie follows GEOAmey's apology in 2024 for significant failings in prisoner transportation, which resulted in inmates missing crucial hospital appointments and funerals. The former chief inspector of prisons accused GEOAmey of breaching the human rights of those in custody, underscoring the urgent need for improved service delivery.
Operational Details and Contractual Changes
Mitie is scheduled to take over the prisoner escort services on January 27 next year, with the contract extending until April 2035. GEOAmey opted not to bid for the renewal, citing a difficult decision to withdraw from the procurement process. The new contract will involve a fleet of 133 vehicles equipped with advanced technology, including real-time trackers, live-stream CCTV cameras, duress alarms, and body-worn cameras for staff. Additionally, the vans will feature "sensory internal lighting" designed to reduce stress among prisoners during transit.
Scottish Prison Service chief executive Teresa Medhurst expressed confidence in the new arrangement, emphasising the importance of collaboration to meet the needs of those in care, justice and health partners, and the wider Scottish public. She noted that the contract builds on recommendations from His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Prisons in Scotland and the Public Audit Committee, incorporating lessons from past experiences and feedback from individuals with direct service experience.
Justice Secretary Angela Constance acknowledged the critical role of court custody services and prisoner escorting in the criminal justice system, thanking frontline officers for their daily contributions. However, the award to Mitie, amidst ongoing scrutiny of its practices, continues to fuel debates over accountability, security, and fiscal responsibility in public sector contracts.
