Justice Minister considers new measures which could see wealthy prisoners pay for their stay

Wealthy prisoners could be made to contribute towards the cost of their imprisonment under proposals being explored by the Minister for Justice.

Nigel Feetham has requested legal advice on whether such a scheme could be introduced, particularly for prisoners convicted of serious sexual offences against children.

He’s also considering a separate proposal concerning investigations into alleged child sexual offences that are discontinued without charges.

Under the first proposal, prisoners with substantial independent financial resources, including private pensions, could be required to contribute towards their upkeep, provided they have no financially dependent family members.

Those without sufficient means would not have to pay, and essential prison services would remain unaffected.

Nigel Feetham is seeking legal advice on whether the scheme would comply with Gibraltar’s Constitution and the European Convention on Human Rights.

Separately, the Justice Minister wants to explore receiving anonymised information about investigations into alleged sexual offences against children that are discontinued without charges.

The aim would be to identify recurring problems, including evidential or procedural difficulties, and inform possible improvements to investigations and victim support.

Mr Feetham says this would not interfere with police or prosecutorial decisions, adding he’s determined to leave no stone unturned in protecting children from abuse.