The government has announced that prisoners who have served 40% of their sentence will be released to alleviate overcrowding.

Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood warned that inaction could lead to the collapse of the criminal justice system and widespread disorder.

She criticized former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his administration for ignoring warning signs.

More than 10,000 prisoners were released early between October and June under the previous government, Sky News has reported.

Starting in September, most prisoners in England and Wales will be released on licence after serving 40% of their sentence, down from 50%, except for those convicted of serious violent offences or those with sentences of four years or more.

About 5,500 prisoners are expected to be released under the new scheme in the initial months.

Written by B.C. Begley