“The population will remain extremely high and the ongoing problem of overcrowding will remain”: HMI Prisons responds to plans to increase prison spaces

The prison system in England and Wales remains very fragile. The government estimates that 4,500 extra prisoners will be released in tranches between October 2026 and June 2027, but the population will remain extremely high and the ongoing problem of overcrowding, which is having such a debilitating effect in many jails, will remain. Far too many prisoners spend their days languishing in their cells instead of taking part in education and work, living conditions in overcrowded jails are often appalling, and high rates of drug use and violence put the safety of prisoners and staff at risk. Without sustained effort to make prisons places of purpose, where men and women are properly prepared for release, it is likely that more prisoners will reoffend and will be recalled to jail, reducing available space and adding to these systemic problems.

Many of the government’s proposed solutions to the population crisis are complex and will take some years to implement. We welcome the move to end imprisonment for public protection, under which too many prisoners remain in jail, often many years post-tariff. However, this will need a careful, considered approach to make sure there is there is due regard for public safety and appropriate support for those being released.