Concerning the possibility for inmates to possess and use stamps that have been sent to them. Also criticism of the Swedish Prison and Probation Service, Hall Prison, for giving the distinct impression when informing inmates about the procedure that the possession of stamps is not permitted under any circumstances

Summary of the decision: During 2024, the Parliamentary Ombudsmen received a number of complaints that Hall Prison had prohibited inmates from having stamps sent to them by post in their possession. In dealing with these complaints, among other things the investigation obtained the written information circulated to inmates regarding this procedure. The matter has since been reviewed.

In her decision, the Parliamentary Ombudsman criticises Hall Prison for the information provided to the inmates in question. She also discusses what would be required for an assessment of whether an inmate should be permitted to have something in their possession to be considered individual in any meaningful sense. Given the facts that have come to the Parliamentary Ombudsman’s attention, she underlines the urgency of the prison reviewing its procedures regarding the use stamps by inmates at the earliest possible opportunity.