In 1981 when Jim Prior, seen as a leader of the 'wet' Conservatives, was transferred to Northern Ireland by Thatcher, Scott joined him as a junior Minister. Scott took charge of prisons and quickly came under criticism when there was a mass break out from the Maze Prison and faced calls to resign.
In 1981, Jim Prior, viewed as a prominent Conservative leader, was relocated to Northern Ireland by Thatcher, and Scott joined him as a junior Minister. Scott assumed responsibility for prisons and soon faced intense scrutiny when there was a large-scale escape from the Maze Prison, prompting calls for his resignation.