Oral question asked in the House of Commons, by Lord Herbert of South Downs (Conservative). It was answered on Tuesday, 28 October 2008 on behalf of the Ministry of Justice.

End of Custody Licence Scheme

Question: In a written answer published late last night, the Government reveal that three alleged murders were committed by prisoners while released early under the end of custody licence scheme. How can the Secretary of State have the front to talk about punishing offenders and being on the side of victims when his policy—under which more than 36,000 prisoners, including 7,000 violent criminals, have been released early—so clearly puts the public at risk?

Answer: Of course, I understand the concern. I gave the figures to the hon. Gentleman, and I was concerned to ensure that he got them and that they were comprehensive. There are three cases, out of the thousands of prisoners who have been released early, in which allegations of murder have been made. In one case the proceedings are continuing, and I cannot comment on it. In the second case, the alleged perpetrator subsequently killed himself. When the third case came before the court last December, Mrs. Justice Swift stated in her sentencing remarks:"““The fact that you were released early cannot, in my view, be said to have been causative of what happened thereafter””—" that is, the murder. She continued:"““It is highly likely that the events that took place would have occurred whenever you were released.””"

Secondary information