Justice system measures aim to tackle severe overcrowding but raise concerns over public safety and potential reoffending risks.

With prisons across England and Wales facing unprecedented levels of overcrowding, some prisoners released early under a temporary Government scheme may be housed in budget hotels due to insufficient space in standard community accommodation for offenders. Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood informed MPs that, while bail hostels and other facilities would be prioritised, hotels may become a necessary alternative to prevent newly released inmates from becoming homeless.

The plan, which began this week, involves the early release of around 1,700 prisoners, adding to the 1,000 normally freed weekly. This measure was implemented to alleviate the growing crisis as the prison population hit a record 88,521 last Friday. Concerns have been raised over potential increases in reoffending, as Chief Inspector of Prisons Charlie Taylor warned that releasing inmates without adequate support could lead to breaches of bail conditions or further crimes, with some inevitably returning to jail.

Responding to questions in the Commons, Mahmood described the scheme as part of a broader “rescue effort” to stabilise the justice system, which is currently at breaking point. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s previous warnings from senior police officers about delaying the SDS40 scheme, which aims to reduce overcrowding, have resurfaced, highlighting the urgency of the issue. Taylor likened the situation to an overflowing bathtub, suggesting the Government had no choice but to “let some water out.”

Victims’ advocates have also expressed concern, particularly about the early release of violent offenders. Baroness Newlove, the Victims’ Commissioner, criticised failures to notify some victims ahead of offenders’ releases. Domestic abuse organisations have called for stricter exemptions, noting that while perpetrators of sex offences, terrorism, and serious violence are excluded, gaps remain for some domestic abuse-related crimes.

The Ministry of Justice has argued that ensuring released offenders have shelter reduces reoffending risks, stating that placing offenders in hotels would be a “last resort.” However, critics, including charities and penal reform groups, have urged the Government to focus on longer-term solutions such as sentencing reforms and improved rehabilitation to reduce the need for emergency measures. The Howard League for Penal Reform described the conditions within prisons as contributing to reoffending, citing overcrowding, violence, and inadequate mental health support as systemic issues.