Andy Burnham, recently appointed Prime Minister, is reviewing the Sentencing Act 2026, which allows for early prisoner releases. His focus is on excluding serious offenders, including those convicted of manslaughter, from this legislation, following public outcry over the potential early release of PC Andrew Harper's killers.
Burnham's proposed solutions to manage prison overcrowding and maintain public safety are complex and politically sensitive. With the prison population nearing capacity, he aims to find a balance that addresses both the need for prison space and the concerns of victims' families.