Scrapping early release for sex offenders could leave no capacity in jails, says David Lammy

Exclusive: Deputy PM says opponents have ‘no solutions’ to possible collapse of justice system in England and Wales Drugs, drones and heat: Amber Rudd and David Lammy begin search for answers to prisons crisis Opponents of plans to release rapists and sex offenders early from prison have “no solutions” to halt the criminal justice system’s possible collapse, David Lammy has said. Under pressure from Labour MPs – including the former safeguarding minister Jess Phillips – to curb the early release scheme, the deputy prime minister said failing to implement it could leave no capacity across jails in England and Wales in November. Killers, rapists and sex offenders will be among more than 5,000 prisoners freed early from September. They include those convicted of manslaughter, rape, grievous bodily harm and sex offences, who will be eligible for release halfway through their sentences rather than serving the current minimum of two-thirds of their term. There has been growing disquiet from supporters of Andy Burnham about the policy. Several Labour MPs said they would push for the plans to be dropped if, as expected, the former Greater Manchester mayor becomes prime minister on 20 July.