Reform UK has criticized the governor of Maidstone Prison in Kent for allowing books that assist foreign offenders in preparing for the “Life in the UK” citizenship test to remain available in the facility’s library. Maidstone, which includes a wing designated for foreign prisoners, provides guidance materials deemed essential for those seeking naturalization.

Zia Yusuf, Reform UK’s home affairs spokesman, condemned the decision by prison governor Paul Mason to retain the materials, asserting that taxpayers should not be compelled to support foreign criminals in acquiring British citizenship. He further accused the prison authorities of opposing the interests of what he described as “patriotic British people” and pledged that, if appointed Home Secretary, he would deport every inmate housed in the prison.

Under current UK policy, individuals who have served sentences of up to four years are not automatically disqualified from applying for citizenship. In response to the criticism, Paul Mason stated that after reviewing the available study materials, he found no issues related to security, safety, prison discipline, or public protection stemming from the presence of the “Life in the UK” test guides. He also emphasized that the publications are not restricted nationally and, therefore, there is no policy justification for their removal from the prison library.

Reform UK’s stance aligns with its broader position on foreign nationals in the prison system. Earlier in the year, party leader Nigel Farage announced plans to relocate approximately 10,000 foreign inmates in UK jails to El Salvador if his party were to come into power.

The debate highlights ongoing tensions over immigration, criminal justice, and citizenship policies within the UK, with Reform UK pushing for stricter measures while prison authorities emphasize adherence to existing regulations and the importance of access to rehabilitation resources.