Overview

• Approximately 1,000 prisoners have been released early under the supervised licence scheme, with plans to expand to 70 days before scheduled release dates.
• The scheme targets non-violent offenders but excludes sex offenders, terrorists, and high-risk criminals.
• Critics argue the policy lacks transparency and adequate public consultation, with potential risks to community safety.
• Overcrowding has reached critical levels, necessitating temporary housing and plans for substantial prison expansion.
• The government faces pressure to balance public safety with the urgent need to alleviate prison overcrowding.