A further policy reversal, objections from police chiefs and the Chief Inspector of Probation, and a governors’ warning about errors have left the early release plan in doubt.
The Association of Prison Lawyers has written to Alex Norris after the pause in early releases, warning that halting Home Detention Curfew will add to pressure on prison places.
Andy Burnham has revived the Sentencing Act release scheme a month late and for fewer prisoners. He has also asked officials to review IPP sentences.
The Conservative leader said she was sorry her party had not built enough prison places in 14 years of government, and urged communities to accept new jails near them.
The 2025/26 prison performance ratings show 16 jails rated ‘outstanding’ and 14 ‘of serious concern’. HMPPS said the scale of change probably overstates the real improvement.
The Labour MP for Newcastle-upon-Tyne North replaces Lord Timpson, who resigned on 20 July as Andy Burnham became Prime Minister.
The new Prime Minister has halted releases that were due to begin in September under the Sentencing Act 2026, prompting warnings of chaos from probation staff.
Justice Secretary Neil Gray has launched a consultation on changes to release points and short sentences. Scotland’s prisons hold 8,459 people against an operating capacity of 8,007.
The Sentencing Act 2026 brings forward the release point for most prisoners on fixed-term sentences, with the first tranche due to leave custody on 2 September.
Ministry of Justice figures show recalls rose by 38 per cent in a year. Only 22 per cent followed a new criminal charge.
