I don't see the problem. They are deprived of most liberties but I don't see why it should extend to the right to vote- that is a central human right. What would be clever would be to say yes but to provide compulsory classes/seminars on governance, society, and individual and collective responsibility and therefore encourage a bit of self reflection and philosophical discussion amongst prisoners. I bet a reasonabe percentage would find that challenging but interesting and who knows where it could lead. But of course that would be too clever and likely not to happen.

Its rich hearing MPs standing up and saying 'law breakers shouldnt be law makers' especially given the recent situation about MPs dipping their hands in the till.