Briefing for report stage of the Victims and Prisoners Bill: Part III amendments

“In summary, while the reduction in IPP licence periods and an automatic termination clause is welcome, more is needed to help nearly 3,000 people who remain in prison serving this scandalous sentence.

“The Justice Committee Chair’s re-sentencing amendment is the most effective mechanism in ending the ongoing indeterminacy of IPP sentences. We urge MPs to support this amendment and to press for further support for those trapped in prison on an IPP sentence.

“While the proposed changes to the reconsideration of Parole Board release decisions are an improvement on the original ministerial veto, they remain a complex and unnecessary measure that will lead to greater delay and significant cost, both financial and human.

“Ministers need to provide answers to the many questions that surround these changes.”

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