Keir Starmer’s government released over 1,700 prisoners early today, as Labour looks to ease overcrowding in prisons across the country.

The move has already proven controversial, with offenders serving less than five years being released after 40 per cent of their sentence, rather than 50 per cent.

During an interview with the BBC on September 7, the Prime Minister said: “We’ve inherited a system where the last government didn’t build the prisons we need, and it has now got to a position where our prisons are overfull, and they haven’t managed the situation.”

Sabeeth Shoeb said the government needs to build more prisons. (Image: Charles Elliman)

Speaking to the Journal, Shabeeth Shoeb, 26, who was concerned about public safety, said: “It’s compromising the safety of other people. We should address the problem by building more prisons.”

Jazz Reilly called Government’s plans ‘bang out of order’ and said: “It should not be happening.”

The 22-year-old continued to suggest people with the shortest sentences are ‘normally people who should not be allowed out of prison.’

Jaz Reilly called the government's decision 'bang out of order.' (Image: Charles Elliman)
In guidance released earlier this week by the Ministry of Justice and HM Prison and Probation Service, the change will not apply to sentences for: sex offences; serious violent offences with a sentence of 4 years or more; terrorist offences; offences relating to national security; many offences connected to domestic abuse.

This contrasts to reports from today, which suggests domestic abuse offenders have been among those released.

In a statement yesterday, Jessica Eagelton, Head of Policy and Public Affairs at domestic abuse charity Refuge asserted: “We welcome the Government’s plans to ensure some perpetrators of domestic abuse are not released early from prison, however the list of exemptions is not comprehensive enough.”

Mils Cairns, also 22, did not agree with the apparent release of serious offenders, but agreed with the release of people imprisoned for less harmful offences.

Mils said: "You’ve got other people being arrested for silly things and they’re not being released.”
One pensioner, who did not want to be named, said: "So long as violent people are not considered for early release, I would support them.

"For non-violent offences, there must be a better way. Prion should not be just for punishment; there should be rehabilitation."

Salisbury and South Wiltshire MP John Glen speaking at the Institute for Government conference in central London (Stefan Rousseau/PA)
Asked for comment, Salisbury MP John Glen, said: "All government is about making difficult decisions, but it also must involve acknowledging and planning for the consequences of those decisions."

The MP continued: “The government must explain how, while allowing the release of all types of prisoners, they will ensure the safety of affected communities, which they have yet to do.

"Releasing large numbers of prisoners before the end of their custodial sentences with a proper plan for community protection is irresponsible and dangerous."