Defence Secretary Wes Streeting has sparked controversy after a video emerged of him making light of the government's early prisoner release scheme. The video, published by Guido Fawkes, shows Streeting and Home Secretary Mahmood joking with new Justice Secretary Alex Norris about the scheme. Streeting can be heard calling Norris 'the enemy now' and making a comment that appears to reference the government's plans for early release for prisoners. Home Secretary Mahmood joins in, saying 'no he's not' in response to Streeting's comment. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has criticised the comments, saying they make light of a 'disgusting policy'. The comments have been widely condemned, with many expressing concern that the government is prioritising the release of prisoners over the safety of the public. Streeting has since apologised for his comments, saying 'I hope everyone can see there was no ill intent behind this ribbing of the new Justice Secretary - it was a reference to an old May/Clarke joke'. He added that he appreciates the issue is 'very serious' and apologised for any offence caused.
Streeting's comments have sparked a heated debate about the government's early prisoner release scheme, which has been opposed by many Tory MPs. The scheme has been introduced as part of the government's efforts to reduce the prison population, but critics argue it puts the public at risk. The controversy surrounding Streeting's comments highlights the divisions within the government over this issue.