Prisons crisis needs ‘radical solutions’ in England and Wales, say former top judges

Earlier release of killers and rapists on licence among the options suggested to potentially ease overcrowding

Five of the most senior former judges in England and Wales have warned that radical solutions" such as the earlier release of killers and rapists on licence should be considered to ease the prison overcrowding crisis.

The four surviving former lord chief justices - Lord Woolf, Lord Phillips of Worth Matravers, Lord Thomas of Cwmgiedd, and Lord Burnett of Maldon - and Sir Brian Leveson, the only surviving president of the queen's bench division, have recommended a review at the halfway stage of the determinate sentences of all prisoners serving longer than 10 years.

The release of all IPP [imprisonment for public protection] prisoners and two-strike prisoners who are over tariff, with support in the community.

A review of the needs and risk levels of older prisoners upon reaching a certain age, followed by a move to a more appropriate secure location if required.

Reinstating the provision that releases those prisoners who must serve two-thirds of their sentences to one-half.

Regular review of minimum terms" for people serving indeterminate sentences.

An increase in the size and number of the open (category D) prison estate to help inmates return to work, education and family for those serving long sentences.

Life-sentenced prisoners should be allowed to apply to move to open prison years earlier than the current three years before release.