Prisoners: Imprisonment for Public Protection Sentences

Lord Morris of Aberavon Excerpts

Wednesday 11th November 2015 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Evans of Bowes Park]

I am certainly happy to speak to my noble friend Lord Faulks about that when he returns. I am sure he would be happy to do that.

[Lord Morris of Aberavon (Lab)]

Does the Minister agree that the delay in considering cases is reprehensible, but the safety of the public must always be paramount?

[Baroness Evans of Bowes Park]

I thank the noble and learned Lord for that comment. He is absolutely right—the Parole Board can ensure that these prisoners are released only when it determines that the risk has been reduced and they can be safely managed in the community. These are extremely complex cases, and we have to be mindful of ensuring that prisoners feel they are progressing, but, equally, that the public are kept safe.