Andy Burnham has said he will review an early prisoner release policy, due to come into force this autumn, following anger that two killers of PC Andrew Harper could be freed early.
From September, thousands of offenders in England and Wales will become eligible for earlier release under the newly enacted Sentencing Act. Since 2024, tens of thousands of inmates have already been released early to alleviate chronic prison overcrowding.
Burnham stated: “I cannot promise to overturn the policy entirely, but I will examine it thoroughly before any further steps are taken.”
He recognized that prisons are under significant pressure and that past underinvestment has created “an unacceptable situation” within the correctional system.
His comments follow statements by PC Andrew Harper’s mother, who described the possible early release of her son’s killers as an “insult.”
Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers were sentenced to 13 years for manslaughter but could be set free early under the Sentencing Act.
Prison overcrowding has plagued the UK for years, prompting successive governments to release inmates early in an effort to free up space.
The Sentencing Act, introduced by Sir Keir Starmer’s government earlier this year, was intended to reduce pressure on prisons and will shorten the time some offenders serve before release.
Burnham added: “I want to ensure that every detail has been scrutinised before this policy moves forward, and I can assure you that I will review every aspect of it with the justice secretary.”
Addressing the Harper case, he said: “I empathise with the family; it was an appalling crime.”
He clarified that the principal offender in Harper’s death would not qualify for early release.
