MP raises concerns over prisoners released without electronic tags

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 29 Oct, 16:35 · Archive

Tatton MP Esther McVey has questioned whether early-release prisoners are being adequately tracked and housed.

Tatton MP Esther McVey called for answers in Parliament on 27 October over the government's early prisoner release scheme, raising concerns about electronic tagging and housing. She questioned whether released offenders lacking tags would be monitored or left to roam freely and highlighted cases of prisoners being given tents upon release due to accommodation shortages.

Justice Minister Catherine McKinnell responded that releasing prisoners with tents was unacceptable and not government policy. She said the government is working to improve the current housing situation. The early release scheme has been criticised for alleged failures to ensure the strict monitoring promised by the Labour Party, with claims that released offenders would receive the 'toughest supervision in British history'.

The Ministry of Justice estimates around 4,500 additional offenders will be released through phased releases under the new Progression Model between October 2026 and June 2027. Police and probation representatives have raised concerns about additional pressure on their services, with officers warning that services are already struggling with existing workloads.

MP raises concerns over prisoners released without electronic tags — Image: Northwich Guardian

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How it is being reported

Cheshire MP raises concerns over prisoners being released without tagsTatton MP Esther McVey demands answers on October 27 over early prisoner releases, missing electronic tags and offenders given tents under Labour’s scheme.Northwich Guardian · 29 Oct, 16:00
Cheshire MP raises concerns over prisoners being released without tagsTatton MP Esther McVey demands answers on October 27 over early prisoner releases, missing electronic tags and offenders given tents under Labour’s scheme.Warrington Guardian · 29 Oct, 16:00

In this story: Esther McVey · Catherine McKinnell · Tatton · Ministry of Justice · Labour Party

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