Prisoners to be Released Early in Government Bid to Ease Jail Overcrowding

Early Release for Low-Level Offenders

Prisoners are set to be released up to two months early as the government rushes to alleviate overcrowded prisons. Justice Secretary, Mr. Chalk, clarified that this measure would only apply to low-level offenders for a limited period.

Controversy and Concerns

This move is expected to provoke backlash from voters and Conservative MPs, who fear that even shoplifters could be released prematurely. Currently, convicts can be released under supervision 18 months early, but this new initiative aims to cut this time to between 35 and 60 days.

Monitoring Measures in Place

To address chronic overcrowding, Mr. Chalk plans to utilize GPS tag monitoring to track the movements of released offenders. The Ministry of Justice announced this decision quietly on Parliament's website late Monday night.

Reactions from Opposition

Labour's Shadow Justice Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, criticized the move, blaming previous Conservative governments for failing to build enough prison spaces. She argued that this situation has forced the early release of violent criminals, domestic abusers, and burglars, posing a risk to public safety.