Backlash on plans to release inmates

MINISTERS are facing a backlash from victims and domestic abuse watchdogs over planned changes to prison recall which would see some offenders released within a month to free up jail space.

- NINA LLOYD

Under emergency measures announced by the Justice Secretary, some criminals serving sentences between one and four years will be returned to custody only for a fixed 28-day period.

Offenders are recalled to prison if they commit another offence or breach licence conditions, such as by missing probation appointments, when they are released early but remain on licence.

Shabana Mahmood said the changes were necessary to curb overcrowding as she warned jails are on track to be down to “zero capacity” by November.

The plans were criticised by Victims Commissioner Baroness Newlove and Domestic Abuse Commissioner Dame Nicole Jacobs, who said lives would be in danger as a result of the decision.