Number of phones in prison revealed

More than 1,500 mobile phones or component parts have been found behind bars in the last four years, Justice Secretary Michael Matheson said.

He revealed the number as he urged MSPs to back regulations which will allow prisons chiefs to have illicit mobile phones blocked.

Holyrood’s Justice Committee agreed the regulations after Mr Matheson said the changes would help make prisons safer. He said: “They can be used to plan escape or indiscipline, or to conduct serious organised crime.”