Former Justice Secretary Warns New Government Against Sending Mixed Messages About Punishment

Former justice secretary Sir Robert Buckland has issued a warning to the new government as they prepare to address the issue of prison overcrowding. In a recent statement, Sir Robert emphasized the importance of maintaining certainty in sentencing and avoiding the release of potentially dangerous individuals into the community.

While acknowledging the need to address the issue of overcrowded prisons, Sir Robert expressed concern over the proposal to release certain prisoners after serving only 40% of their sentences. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that serious offenders, particularly domestic abusers and stalkers, are not included in any early release schemes.

Sir Robert, who recently lost his seat in the general election, highlighted the challenges he faced during his tenure as justice secretary in managing prison capacity. He criticized the slow progress in building new prisons, attributing the delays to the planning system.

Calling for a long-term plan to address the issues within the prison system, Sir Robert cautioned against sending mixed messages about punishment. He stressed the importance of maintaining a clear and consistent approach to penal policy.

As the new government prepares to announce measures to ease prison overcrowding, Sir Robert’s warning serves as a reminder of the complexities and implications of any changes to the justice system. It will be crucial for policymakers to carefully consider the potential consequences of their decisions and prioritize public safety above all else.