Prime Minister Andy Burnham has directed Justice Secretary Alex Norris to propose further revisions to the prisoner early release scheme. The instruction aims to ensure that Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers, two individuals convicted in the killing of PC Andrew Harper, remain in jail.
Early last week, Mr Burnham announced changes to the inherited early release scheme, which were due to take effect from September. These changes were expected to include approximately 1,000 fewer prisoners. However, Cole and Bowers remained eligible under those revisions.
Housing Secretary Angela Rayner confirmed the Prime Minister's stance, stating that he is determined to find a solution. She added that Mr Norris has been tasked to present a solution to parliament in September. Alternatives being considered include indefinite sentences, the release of more women prisoners, and speeding up the deportation of foreign nationals to create more prison space.