Cleverly and Lammy clash over early prisoner release policies
7 reported
During Prime Minister’s Questions, Conservative MP James Cleverly criticized Justice Secretary David Lammy over early prisoner release schemes, calling them “wrong and dangerous.” Cleverly claimed 50,000 prisoners have been released early in two years under Labour and that accidental releases have continued. Lammy defended the policy, noting that the Conservatives also had early release schemes and released 10,000 people early. He argued that the government needs prison places to keep offenders locked up. The exchange also covered other topics, including a conditional pardon for Ruth Ellis and the Hillsborough law bill.
What’s reported
James Cleverly said 50,000 prisoners have been released early in two years under Labour.
Cleverly claimed accidental releases have continued under Labour, more than in the entirety of the last parliament.
Lammy said the Tories released 10,000 people early and had their own early release schemes.
Lammy argued that for offenders to be locked up, the government needs prisoner places.
Cleverly quoted a victim who said finding out her attacker is getting out early means she can barely sleep.
Lammy announced that the King has accepted advice to grant Ruth Ellis a conditional pardon, replacing the death penalty with life imprisonment.
Lammy said the Hillsborough law bill will be back in the Commons “in the coming days.”
Key figures
James Cleverly, Conservative MP
David Lammy, Justice Secretary
Pam Cox, Labour MP
Emily Darlington, Labour MP
Daisy Cooper, deputy Liberal Democrat leader
Jeff Smith, Labour MP
Ruth Ellis (deceased, subject of pardon)
David Blakely (deceased, victim of Ruth Ellis)
Bev Craig, Labour candidate in Greater Manchester mayoral election
Sources: The Guardian
