The Youth Justice Board (YJB) has rejected some of the core recommendations of the Carlile inquiry into the use of physical restraint, solitary confinement and forcible strip searching of juveniles in custody.

In its formal response, the YJB rejects the call for a single disciplinary system for all custodial staff, as it says this is up to providers. It also rejects Lord Carliles call for an end to premeditated restraint, which he says is a form of punishment.

The response states: We do not accept that there is a logical link between premeditation and punishment.

Carlile directed 25 of his 45 recommendations at the YJB. Many are accepted, on subjects such as staff training, but several pass responsibility onto the providers the YJB commissions to run the juvenile secure estate.

The Howard League for Penal Reform said the response is mealy-mouthed. Its director, Frances Crook, said: Time and again the YJB says it has issued guidance but has no power to enforce change.

www.yjb.gov.uk