The Liberal Democrats are raising alarms over the Labour Government’s controversial decision to allow early release for prisoners after they have served just 40% of their sentences, deeming it a dangerous move for public safety.
For too long, years of neglect and mismanagement by the previous Conservative Government have pushed our prison system into a deep crisis.
Overcrowded, understaffed, and unable to properly rehabilitate offenders, the system is now at breaking point.
Overcrowding means that our prisons are not just places of punishment—they have become places where offenders cannot be properly rehabilitated, leading to high rates of reoffending.
The statistics are alarming: 75% of ex-inmates reoffend within nine years of their release, and 40% do so within the first year. This reoffending crisis costs society £18.1 billion every year, a clear indication that the current system is failing.
This crisis didn’t happen overnight. The root of the problem began under Conservative rule, when they allowed the prison system to deteriorate. Now, the new Labour Government’s mishandled plan for early prisoner release is only making the situation worse.
Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader, Councillor Steve Beasant expressed concern, saying, “This decision to release prisoners early raises serious public safety issues. Many people worry it could lead to more crimes like shoplifting and burglary, while weakening the justice system even further.”
Councillor Loyd Emmerson, Liberal Democrat from East Marsh ward added, “The probation and prison system is totally broken, and our area is less safe because of it. Labour’s decision shows they are neglecting the safety and well-being of our community’.
Liberal Democrat Campaigner from Heneage ward, Brain Barrett said, “Labour's short prison sentence scheme is not being tough on crime. We need a better approach that truly addresses the root causes of criminal behaviour”.
In response to Labour's misguided strategy and years of Conservative neglect, the Liberal Democrats have proposed a plan to improve public safety by freeing up police time, reducing court delays, and tackling prison overcrowding. Their approach avoids short-term sentences and instead focuses on rehabilitation through community service and treatment programmes to address the root causes of crime. Liberal Democrats say violent offenders, including domestic abusers, should not be eligible for early release.
Liberal Democrat Group Leader, Cllr Nicola Aisthorpe said, “Instead of protecting our communities, Labour's dangerous plan risks releasing offenders who still pose a threat, as they have not provided enough time for meaningful rehabilitation. Any early release schemes must also be paired with increased resources for probation services to ensure proper support and oversight. Releasing prisoners without adequate rehabilitation and supervision is a recipe for disaster. Public safety must always come first".
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