Andy Burnham has triggered a political row after ordering a review of plans for the early release of thousands of offenders, following outrage from the family of PC Andrew Harper.
Key facts
- Andy Burnham has ordered a review of plans for the early release of prisoners.
- The plans would affect thousands of offenders, including killers, rapists and sex offenders, set for release in September.
- About 6,000 offenders were due to be freed on tags in a fresh tranche.
- The family of PC Andrew Harper expressed outrage that his killers may be eligible for release.
- The prime minister pledged to ensure 'everything has been looked at again' before the releases.
Andy Burnham is at the centre of a deepening political row after ordering a review of plans for the early release of thousands of offenders from prison in September, according to the Guardian.
The plans would have made a fresh tranche of about 6,000 offenders eligible for release on tags. The Guardian reports that those affected include killers, rapists and sex offenders.
The controversy intensified after the family of PC Andrew Harper expressed outrage that his killers may be eligible for release under the scheme.
In response, the prime minister pledged to make sure that “everything has been looked at again” before the offenders were freed, the Guardian reports.
The review comes amid public and political scrutiny of the early release policy and its implications for the offenders due to be freed in September.
Why it matters
Early release schemes are used to manage prison capacity, but they raise concerns about public safety and justice for victims. The review signals how political pressure and the concerns of victims' families can shape decisions about releasing offenders.
Frequently asked questions
How many offenders were due to be released?
According to the Guardian, a fresh tranche of about 6,000 offenders were due to be freed on tags in September.
Why has the plan caused outrage?
The family of PC Andrew Harper expressed outrage that his killers may be eligible for release under the scheme, according to the Guardian.
What has the prime minister said?
The prime minister pledged to make sure that 'everything has been looked at again' before the offenders were freed, the Guardian reports.