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<p>Weapon seizures have dropped with improvement in detection methods and as a result
there are fewer attempts at smuggling of weapons through reception and visit areas.
New and enhanced technology as well as dedicated search teams have contributed to
that fall in the smuggling of weapons.</p><p> </p><p>The new Crime in Prison Agreement
between HMPPS, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) and the police has also resulted
in crimes committed whilst in prison or in smuggling in illicit items being consistently
referred for prosecution to the police. This sends a clear message to those who commit
crimes that they will be punished through the courts and face the consequences of
their actions</p><p> </p><p>Data on weapons held in prison has been collectively systematically
since 2015 and is enclosed. Prior to that date it was not collected consistently and
so a calculation cannot be reliably provided.</p><p> </p><p>Data and information on
weapons finds is routinely published as part of the normal publication schedule, and
data on 2018-19 will be published in due course.</p><p>Data table is attached.</p>
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