HM Inspectorate of Prisons for Scotland was established in 1981, following recommendations of the May Committee report of 1979.

Reports on individual prison visits are made to the Scottish Government and are subsequently published.

The Scottish Ministers may also refer specific prison-related matters to the Chief Inspector for him to report on.

The Inspectorate also inspects Legalised Police Cells (mainly used in rural parts of northern Scotland) and the conditions of prisoner escort arrangements.

The Inspectorate team also includes a Scottish Government civil servant and a Personal Secretary.