The UK government is set to release 1,700 prisoners early on Tuesday in a move aimed at alleviating severe overcrowding in British jails.
Recent figures reveal that the prison population in England and Wales has reached its highest level ever.
While concerns persist about the possibility of released prisoners reoffending, the government assured the public that no violent offenders or domestic abusers would be considered for early release.
Business Minister Jonathan Reynolds, speaking on Sky News, acknowledged the difficulty of the decision, stating that the release was necessary to prevent a situation where convicted criminals are spared jail due to the lack of space.
Reynolds attributed the overcrowding crisis to the previous Conservative government, which was ousted in July. He argued that the issue should have been addressed sooner, adding, “Of all the scandals we inherited, I think the prison system is probably the worst.”
Chief Inspector of Probation, Martin Jones, highlighted the “extreme” pressure on the prison system, noting that prisons are nearing 100% capacity, with only a couple hundred spaces remaining as of Monday.
Jones also warned that it is “certain” some released individuals will re-offend, pointing out that about one-third of those released each year commit new offences within 12 months.
Reynolds, however, emphasized that protections have been put in place, ensuring that individuals convicted of violent crimes or domestic abuse are not eligible for early release.
The government has also confirmed that individuals involved in recent anti-immigration riots, which contributed to the surge in the prison population, will not be excluded from the release program. The decision reflects the growing strain on the UK’s justice system, as authorities balance the need to maintain public safety with addressing the critical issue of overcrowded prisons.