David Gauke, former Conservative lord chancellor, has said longer jail terms have been a “knee jerk” policy response to show government action
The UK's prison overcrowding crisis, exacerbated by "tough on crime" policies, has led to a system nearing collapse, according to a major review led by David Gauke. The report highlights that longer sentences, driven by political rhetoric, have increased the prison population to over 85,000, one of the highest in Western Europe. This has shifted resources away from reducing reoffending and improving safety. The review advocates for evidence-based reforms, emphasizing community support over imprisonment for many offenders. Labour has started releasing prisoners early, reducing the required sentence served from 50% to 40%. Experts support these findings, urging a shift from punitive measures to addressing root causes of crime. The review calls for an honest dialogue on sentencing and prison use, aiming for a more effective justice system.
