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This paper reviews the literature on prison suicide. The characteristics of suicide within the Canadian Federal Penitentiary Service are compared with previous data. In the population examined, prison suicide was found to be a predominantly male phenomenon, not associated with age, offence type, previous convictions or length of sentence. It was most commonly committed by hanging, frequently occurring in the period shortly after sentencing. Suicide was associated with single marital status, earlier suicide attempts, a history of drug or alcohol abuse, and a previous history of psychiatric illness.

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The parole system of England and Wales is contrasted with that of Canada. Recent reviews of the system have taken place in both countries. There is agreement between the reviewing bodies on the centrality of risk assessment to parole. In the Canadian case, this concern extends to the development and maintenance of statistical predictors to make the system consonant with its stated purpose. Despite the existence of an excellent statistical basis for similar developments in England, the possibilities are all but unmentioned by the review there, and are neglected by the system as it operates. It is held that the Canadian system is developing a dynamic for achieving its stated goals, while the English system is failing to do so.