Prisons ‘one major event from disaster’ after U-turn on early release scheme
Summary
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has canceled the early release of certain prisoners, including those convicted of manslaughter and serious sexual crimes, after public pressure following the killing of PC Andrew Harper. While this decision reassures victims' families and police, experts warn it may worsen overcrowding in already full prisons.Key Facts
- Andy Burnham reversed plans for early release of around 1,400 prisoners guilty of serious crimes.
- The change stops early release for manslaughter, rape, child abuse, and grooming offenders.
- PC Andrew Harper was killed responding to a crime in 2019; two teenage offenders were imprisoned for 13 years.
- The decision was praised by police, victims’ groups, and Harper’s family.
- Critics say the U-turn may delay prison reforms and increase overcrowding risks.
- England and Wales prisons are at about 98% capacity, nearly full.
- Early release plans had aimed to shorten sentences for up to 6,000 prisoners but now will affect about 4,600.
- Prison staff warn that pressure on managing prisons will rise without enough freed-up space.
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