Howard League responds to prison reform proposals in the Queen’s Speech

The Howard League for Penal Reform has responded to the prison reform proposals outlined in the Queen’s Speech today (Wednesday 18 May).

Frances Crook, Chief Executive of the Howard League for Penal Reform, said: “It is hugely encouraging to see that prison reform is at the front and centre of today’s Queen’s Speech. There is no public service in such disarray as the prisons, and the rising number of assaults, deaths by suicide, and incidents of self-injury show that the need for change is urgent.

“More autonomy for governors, improvements to education and a more sensible approach to release on temporary licence are all steps in the right direction.

“Less helpful is the proposal to tag people during the week and lock them up at weekends. After the embarrassing disasters with tagging by private security companies, we should look to more creative ways to ease people into the community safely.

“Ultimately, the success of these reforms will depend on whether the government introduces positive measures to tackle overcrowding by driving down prison numbers.”

Notes to editors

1. The Howard League for Penal Reform is the oldest penal reform charity in the world. It is a national charity working for less crime, safer communities and fewer people in prison.
2. A copy of the Queen’s Speech can be found online.

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