Senior police and intelligence leaders, including Met Police commissioner Sir Mark Rowley, have raised concerns over the Government’s plan to release some prisoners early to ease overcrowding. They have warned that the proposals could harm public safety and confidence. While supportive of reform, they cautioned against early release for high-risk and national security offenders, highlighting challenges such as increased police workload, costs of electronic tagging, and community justice undermining deterrence. The Government recently accepted a sentencing review recommending community management for some offenders and early release after serving one-third of sentences, excluding serious criminals. Justice secretary Shabana Mahmood and her ministry claim concerns were addressed in the final policy, promising tighter controls and increased probation funding. Critics across the political spectrum argue for tougher sentencing and greater investment in prison infrastructure to restore justice and security.