Sophie Huskisson

Andy Burnham is reviewing sentencing reforms to prevent child sex offenders from qualifying for early release under the Sentencing Act, which introduces an earned‑progression model aimed at relieving prison overcrowding. The reforms allow earlier release for many offenders, though serious criminals are already excluded. Jess Phillips has urged additional exemptions for child sexual offences, while Justice Secretary David Lammy maintains the reforms are necessary to avoid a collapse of the prison system. Burnham has also expressed reservations about Labour’s plan to limit jury trials for cases likely to receive short sentences. The Ministry of Justice states that early‑release rules will remain strict and supported by expanded probation resources.