Prime Minister Andy Burnham has announced a review of the government’s prisoner early release scheme following widespread public backlash over the release of two individuals convicted in the 2019 killing of PC Andrew Harper.

The controversy centres on the potential early release of Henry Long, 19, and Jessie Cole, 18, who were sentenced to 16 and 13 years respectively for their roles in the fatal incident.PC Harper, 28, died after being dragged by a car strap during a burglary in Berkshire.His mother condemned the prospect of the killers’ early release as an 'insult', prompting calls for a reassessment of the policy.

The scheme, introduced under former Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, aims to address prison overcrowding by releasing 6,000 offenders early from September.

Burnham emphasized the need to 'look at everything' before proceeding, acknowledging the 'unacceptable situation' caused by underfunding of the prison system.The review also includes other policies like jury trial reforms and the Chagos Islands sovereignty transfer.Meanwhile, Defence Secretary Wes Streeting faced criticism for joking about the scheme, though he later apologized.

The Ministry of Justice confirmed Cole and Bowers may be eligible for halfway release, but Burnham assured the public that the main perpetrator would not be released early.