Early Release of Prisoners Debate

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Department: Ministry of Justice

Early Release of Prisoners

Gagan Mohindra Excerpts
Tuesday 7th July 2026

(1 month ago)

Commons Chamber
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Jake Richards Portrait Jake Richards
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Let me make some progress first.

The Home Secretary recognised that alongside prison building, there would be a need to reform sentencing, and for that be done above party politics. That is the principal reason why she asked Sir David Gauke, a former Conservative Justice Secretary, to undertake an independent sentencing review.

Jake Richards Portrait Jake Richards
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Some Opposition Members still think he is a great man. I do not think that is a universal view on the Opposition Benches.

Following publication of the review, the Sentencing Bill began its passage through Parliament and received Royal Assent on 22 January this year. It was explained during its passage that many of its provisions would come into effect only in the autumn of this year. Any Government would continue to assess how best to achieve sustainability in our prison system, while ensuring public safety and confidence. Every decision that this Labour Government have taken has been based on keeping the public safe, protecting our criminal justice system and delivering justice for victims. That will continue to guide all future decisions, under this Prime Minister and the next Prime Minister.