Islamic extremists likely to radicalise inmates to be separated

The plans will go along with new vetting measures for Muslim prison chaplains and the removal of extremist literature from institutions’ libraries.

The announcement followed a report that found “complacency” regarding Islamic extremism in jails

However, critics have warned the move could increase the infamy of such inmates, adding that it could also mean the most dangerous men are held together.

The extremism review, led by Ian Acheson, a former prison governor, states that there is “institutional timidity” surrounding the issue of extremist views in prison, with staff worried about being branded racist.

He concludes in the report that the National Offender Management Service, which has responsibility for correctional services south of the border, neither understands nor is able to react properly to the threat of Islamic extremism.

Mr Acheson told the BBC: “Prisons must be places where there is order, control, stability and leadership.

“In the absence of these foundations it is all too easy for extremism to flourish and rehabilitation to founder.

“There are no easy answers to the problem of Islamist extremism or indeed any of the other ills which plague our prisons and stop them being hopeful purposeful places. But I am optimistic about the way Liz Truss has begun to deal with the issues and correct the drift.”