Spaces in Male Prisons in England and Wales Fall to Lowest Level of the Year, Sources Say
The BBC reports on a significant drop in available spaces across the male prison estate in England and Wales, reaching its lowest point this year. As of 1 September, there were approximately 1,500 empty spaces, a stark contrast to the 3,040 spaces available in June, according to Ministry of Justice (MoJ) figures.
Justice Secretary Alex Norris is set to provide further details in the House of Commons regarding changes to the early-release scheme, aimed at addressing prison overcrowding. These changes include extending the time prisoners, even those convicted of manslaughter, must serve before potential early release.
The MoJ data reveals a consistent decline in available male prison spaces since mid-June, with the most recent figures (released on 24 August) indicating 1,665 empty spaces. This week’s figures, though not officially released due to the bank holiday, suggest another drop.
The government plans to tackle overcrowding by converting unused spaces within prisons, including offices, laundry rooms, and storage areas, into cells. An investment of £110m from existing budgets will fund this initiative.
Norris emphasized that early release does not equate to freedom and that victims will have a say in the restrictions placed on released criminals. When asked about laundry services in converted spaces, Norris assured that prison operations would remain functional.
The number of additional prison spaces created through these measures is estimated to be between 200 and 900. However, Mark Fairhurst, chairman of the Prison Officers’ Association, raises concerns about staff shortages, stating, "You can create as much additional space as you like… but where are the staff coming from to supervise people?"
Prisons in England and Wales are currently operating at 97% capacity, with approximately 4,500 prisoners expected to be released under the early-release scheme from October. The prime minister also announced that those convicted of manslaughter will be excluded from this scheme, following a campaign by the family of PC Andrew Harper.
