Rapists, killers and violent offenders could be released from prison years earlier than expected under controversial plans designed to stop Britain’s overcrowded jails from running out of space.
The move, signed off by Justice Secretary David Lammy, would allow some of the country’s most serious criminals to leave prison after serving just half of their sentences, rather than the current two-thirds.
Under the changes, due to take effect in September, offenders convicted of rape, manslaughter and grievous bodily harm could become eligible for earlier release if they meet behavioural requirements behind bars.
Critics have reacted with fury, warning that dangerous criminals could be back on Britain’s streets years sooner than victims were promised when sentences were handed down.
The proposals come as the prison system faces an escalating capacity crisis, with ministers warning that jails are close to running out of cells altogether. Officials argue that without emergency action the justice system risks grinding to a halt, leaving courts unable to send newly convicted offenders to prison.
Opponents, however, say the plans amount to putting public safety second.
Shadow ministers accused Labour of rewarding serious offenders while law-abiding citizens are left to bear the consequences. They argue that victims will feel betrayed if criminals convicted of grave offences are released substantially earlier than expected.
The reforms would also reduce time served for some lower-level offenders, meaning burglars, thieves and assault offenders could spend significantly less time in custody before being released into the community.
The Ministry of Justice insists the changes are unavoidable. Officials say the alternative would be a complete breakdown of the prison system, with no space left to house newly convicted criminals.
Ministers have also pointed to a £700 million investment in probation services, the recruitment of additional probation officers and expanded electronic tagging as safeguards designed to monitor offenders after release.
But the prospect of rapists, killers and violent criminals leaving prison years ahead of schedule is likely to fuel a fierce political row, with Labour facing accusations that it is prioritising prison capacity over punishment and public protection.
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