Correctional Facilities Won't Be Fixed Overnight, Minister Says, while Law Enforcement Hunt For Two Men Incorrectly Freed
Shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick has described the situation as a "total mess," commenting this morning.
Appearing on a radio program, he pointed to remarks made by the justice minister after a recent prisoner release, saying that Lammy would implement more robust checks.
"There was a delay of six days for the corrections department supposedly to even become aware this occurred" and notify the police, Jenrick says, "who are now a week behind in the search to find him."
The shadow minister criticises the minister's performance during yesterday's parliamentary questions and alleges him of a "total failure in responsibility."
Speaking about mistaken inmate discharges in broader terms, Jenrick underlines that "each accidental release [...] is unforgivable."
He admits there were similar incidents under the previous administration, but says the figure "has risen significantly" under Labour.
Calling for more prisons to be constructed, he adds: "The public want to see now are adequate safeguards put in place."
"That is a specific administrative failure by the justice department overseen by the minister," Jenrick concludes.
- An account on how the most recent incorrect inmate discharge developed is available elsewhere.
