Tea Time in British Prisons: An Unspoken Privilege
Surprisingly, British prisoners often have the opportunity to enjoy tea during designated meal times, such as the traditional 'teatime'. This practice is a complex mix of routine, comfort, and policy, with debates surrounding the rights and necessities of these small indulgences.
What is Tea Time?
Tea time, as commonly perceived, isn't just about tea; it's a collaborative meal time for prisoners. In British prisons, however, tea time refers to the evening meal. Some call it 'dinner time', though the term 'tea' is frequently used as a colloquialism. The confusion stems from the term 'high tea', which is different from the traditional afternoon tea. High tea often involves scones, cakes, and other snacks, while the 'tea' prisoners refer to is more akin to a casual dinner.
Tea Availability in Prisons
Yes, prisoners are allowed access to tea and related beverages at meals. The Food Standard Authority report confirms that a hot drink (tea) is available at each meal occasion. The tea consumed typically includes 175g of black tea with 15g of semi-skimmed milk per portion, serving one prisoner.
Prisons have moved beyond basic sustenance, with some establishments providing prisoners with 'breakfast packs' that include tea. Among the items in these packs are four loose tea bags, alongside packets of sugar and whitener. This reflects a more humanized approach to prisoner care, ensuring prisoners have some comfort in their daily routines.
Tea in Cells vs. Mess Hall
The availability of tea is often debated, especially when it comes to serving it in cells versus the mess hall. There is a general negative attitude towards allowing prisoners to keep hot drinks in their cells. Yet, this practice has garnered attention in some cases. For example, a man complained to the prison Governor about not being allowed to keep a thermos of tea in his cell. However, the Prison Ombudsman ruled in his favor, stating it was for his health and decent treatment.
A prison official commented: 'It's all very well to be a friend to the prisoner but surely it's hardly a human right to have a cup of tea at night. Prisoners aren’t meant to be in hotel rooms with room service. They are here to be punished.' This perspective reflects the underlying tension between prisoner rights and the punitive nature of incarceration.
Recent Developments
A recent case involved a convicted felon who was ruled to have the right to have tea-making facilities in his cell. The Prison Ombudsman decided that keeping a tea thermos is necessary for the prisoner's health and comfort. However, some critics argue that such luxuries for prisoners might go too far in providing comfort.
Reports such as the 'Prison Food… Glorious Food' and 'Prisoners win right to have tea-making facilities in their cells in case they want a brew at night' highlight the evolving debates around prisoner rights and comfort. These cases illustrate the balance between providing humane care and maintaining the severity of the penal system.