London Prison Officer test positive with first UK prisoner infected

UK’s first prisoner has tested positive for coronavirus at HMP Manchester, formerly known as Strangeways.

The prison said there are no other staff or prisoners known to have the virus at this time.

A statement reads, “There is a confirmed case of coronavirus (COVID-19) at HMP Manchester.

“No other prison staff or prisoners have tested positive and we are following PHE guidance to minimise the risk of further infection.

“Visits are going ahead as usual at this time.”

A prisoner officer at HMP High Down in London has tested positive for coronavirus and is now self-isolating.

Union general secretary Steve Gillan told Sky News’s Sophy Ridge On Sunday, “This is one of the most critical issues going and I’m pleased to say we’re working constructively with government and with employers.”

Andrea Albutt, president of the Prison Governors Association said, many prisoners “will die” as coronavirus pandemic deepens.