Starmer challenges Sunak on ‘get-out-of-jail’ cards for hardened criminals

UK Labour leader Keir Starmer has called on Rishi Sunak to cease issuing “get-out-of-jail” cards to criminals, likening the British Prime Minister to a “jumped-up milk monitor.” During PMQs, the Labour leader pressed Sunak for assurances that serious offenders, including domestic abusers, would not be granted early release as part of efforts to reduce prison overcrowding.

Starmer criticised Sunak for prioritizing “colourful lanyards” over addressing the chaos in prisons, referencing proposals to ban civil servants from wearing rainbow lanyards. The government’s plan for early release, originally intended for “low-level offenders” under strict supervision up to 18 days early, has been extended multiple times. Ministers are now considering extending it further, allowing some criminals to be released up to 70 days early.

Starmer questioned the wisdom of releasing individuals like stalkers, domestic abusers, and those posing risks to children, questioning if such actions truly enhance national security.

Sunak reiterated that the scheme excludes those serving life sentences, convicted of serious violent offenses, terrorism, or sex offenses, with prison governors having strict control to prevent ineligible individuals from participating.