In total, 35 people being held at a psychiatric prison escaped while on official leave last year, compared with 56 in 2012, according to justice ministry figures.

All were recaptured, although two did go on to commit crimes while they were on the run, junior justice minister Fred Teeven told MPs. ‘Every escape is one too many but I am pleased with developments,’ the minister said.

In total, 22 of last year’s escapees were recaptured within 24 hours. Psychiatric prisoners (tbs’ers) are allowed on both accompanied and unaccompanied leave.