Prisons Won't Be Fixed Overnight, Minister States, while Police Search For Two Men Incorrectly Freed
Opposition justice spokesperson the shadow minister has labeled the circumstances as a "total mess," commenting earlier today.
Appearing on a radio program, he pointed to comments made by the justice minister following a recent prisoner release, stating that the minister would establish stricter checks.
"There was a delay of six days for the corrections department reportedly to realize this occurred" and inform the police, the shadow official explains, "who are now a week behind in the manhunt to locate him."
The shadow minister condemns the minister's handling during yesterday's parliamentary questions and accuses him of a "complete dereliction of duty."
Speaking about incorrect inmate discharges in broader terms, the spokesperson underlines that "every single accidental release [...] is unforgivable."
He admits there were similar incidents under the former administration, but says the number "has risen significantly" under Labour.
Calling for more prisons to be built, he continues: "What the British people expect now are proper safeguards implemented."
"That is a specific administrative failure by the justice department overseen by the minister," Jenrick says.
- An account detailing how the latest mistaken prisoner release unfolded is available elsewhere.
