Visiting privileges have finally been restored for prisoners at Westgate more than two weeks after a sit-in sparked a clampdown.

And the lockdown has been lifted for most prisoners but those who took part in the demonstration have been moved to more restrictive units and will be confined to their cells.

Family members had demanded an explanation after weeks without visits or telephone contact with incarcerated relatives.

One concerned mother told yesterday's Royal Gazette : "We've heard nothing concerning what happened up there.'' But last night Prisons Commissioner Edward Dyer denied there had been an information blockade.

"Individual families have been told everything.'' But he said the media and general public had not been informed.

"All visiting privileges that were cut off while we were making the changes have been restored.'' He said: "Following the inmates' sit-in at Westgate, it became obvious that he operational regime had to be adjusted.'' He said a review of medium security housing had led to a reduction in the number of inmates that can be together at one time.

He said those blamed for the action on March 17 would be kept in their cells for 23-hour lockdowns unless they were participating in programmes, were employed, or were attending religious services or scheduled library visits.

Prison insiders claimed windows and furniture had been smashed in the disturbance sparked by an earlier clash at a football match.

Mr. Dyer said: "All meals are served in their cells. They are allowed three visits per month, one on the weekend and two during the week.

They have been moved to the restricted E1 unit and Mr. Dyer said most of those restrictions also applied to inmates in E2.

He said: "The other units have meals served in the dining room and have more recreation and exercise facilities.

"Other changes that apply to all units include a reduction in the number of inmates who participate in exercise at any one time.'' Inmates in E2 are allowed three visits per month, two on the weekends and one during the week while inmates in E3 are allowed three visits per month, all of which may be on the weekends, said Mr. Dyer.

Home Affairs Permanent Secretary Robert Horton said the return of visitors' rights had began at the start of the week.

Mr. Dyer, asked to confirm allegations that a prison officer had been suspended, said: "It's an internal matter and we are dealing with that. I have no other information other than that.''