Violent and sexual offenders will no longer be released halfway through sentence, government announces
2 min read
The most serious offenders will no longer be released halfway through their sentences under plans to toughen up the justice system.
Justice Secretary Robert Buckland will unveil the plans in his keynote speech to the Conservative Party conference.
The change will mean those jailed for violent and sexual offences will have to serve at least two-thirds of their sentence before being released.
Mr Buckland will say the move will "restore faith in the sentencing system".
At the moment, a rapist sentenced to nine years in prison is automatically released after four-and-a-half years.
But under the new regime, they would have to serve six years behind bars before being considered for release.
Mr Buckland will say: "We Conservatives believe release should be earned.
"And that’s why, for the most serious violent and sexual offenders, I’m announcing this Conservative government will abolish automatic early release at the halfway point. These criminals will be required to serve two-thirds of their sentence behind bars.
"Because keeping the most dangerous violent and sexual offenders in prison for longer means they won’t be out on the streets with the opportunity to commit crime. We owe it to victims to make this change.
"Punishment and rehabilitation are not opposites. We have to do both.
"Conservatives believe in offering a second chance to those who are ready to change. Prisons simply cannot be giant academies of crime. So we will do more to improve rehabilitation in prison, and support our probation services in their vital work to supervise and resettle former prisoners."
Boris Johnson ordered an immediate review of sentencing policy when he became Prime Minister.
It is estimated that the change in policy will increase the number of prisoners in England and Wales by 3,000.
PoliticsHome Newsletters
PoliticsHome provides the most comprehensive coverage of UK politics anywhere on the web, offering high quality original reporting and analysis: Subscribe
