UK and Scotland Mull Early Release Plans to Address Prison Overcrowding

Governments consider reducing sentences served to alleviate pressure on correctional facilities

Scotland proposes releasing long-term prisoners after serving two-thirds of their sentences under strict supervision.
Labour government in England and Wales debates lowering the automatic release point to 40-43% of sentences.
Concerns raised over public safety, particularly regarding high-risk offenders and domestic abusers.
Current measures include early release schemes and housing inmates in police cells to manage capacity.
Justice officials emphasize the need for long-term solutions alongside immediate relief measures.