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£20M Debt Threatens SMEs Linked to English Prisons

10/27/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Suppliers who upgraded three English prisons are owed over £20 million, raising questions about Project Bank Accounts (PBAs).
At least 40 SMEs, including firms tied to HMP Birmingham, HMP Liverpool, and HMP Guys Marsh, face bankruptcy due to unpaid invoices.
The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) promised PBAs would protect suppliers.
Administrators reported nominal funds in the accounts tied to PBAs.

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Story summary

Suppliers who upgraded three English prisons are owed over £20 million, raising questions about Project Bank Accounts (PBAs).
At least 40 SMEs, including firms tied to HMP Birmingham, HMP Liverpool, and HMP Guys Marsh, face bankruptcy due to unpaid invoices.
The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) promised PBAs would protect suppliers.
Administrators reported nominal funds in the accounts tied to PBAs.