Burnham says he will review early prisoner release scheme
Summary
Prime Minister Andy Burnham said he will review the early prisoner release policy due to concerns about prison overcrowding. He acknowledged past underinvestment in prisons and promised to examine the policy carefully before moving forward.Key Facts
- Prime Minister Andy Burnham plans to review the policy on releasing prisoners early.
- The policy was created to reduce overcrowding in prisons by freeing up space.
- Tens of thousands of prisoners have been released early since September 2024.
- The Sentencing Act, passed by Sir Keir Starmer’s government, allows some prisoners to serve shorter sentences.
- Families of victims, like the mother of police officer Andrew Harper, have criticized early releases.
- Two men convicted of manslaughter in Harper’s death may be released early under this policy.
- Burnham said he cannot fully change the policy but will examine it closely with the justice secretary.
- The prison system has faced long-term overcrowding and lack of funding.
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