House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement
Public Protection Update
30 March 2022 · Ministry of Justice
Proposed by Dominic Raab Con Esher and Walton
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
At a glance
Key points
- The statement addresses reforms to the parole system in England and Wales to enhance public protection.
- Proposed reforms include revising the Parole Board's release test to prioritise public protection.
- The Government plans to introduce Ministerial oversight for top-tier serious offenders.
Issue summary
The statement addresses reforms to the parole system in England and Wales to enhance public protection.
Action requested
Proposed reforms include revising the Parole Board's release test to prioritise public protection, increasing the number of Parole Board members with law enforcement backgrounds, introducing Ministerial oversight for top-tier serious offenders, allowing victim participation in parole hearings, and requiring the Board to consider victims' submissions. The Government will further detail procedural mechanisms for these reforms.
Key facts
- Court judgment in Bradley case in 1991 stated Parole Board's role is a balancing exercise between prisoner rights and public protection.
- Currently, only 5% of Parole Board members have law enforcement backgrounds.
- Top-tier offenders include those serving sentences for murder, rape, terrorism, or causing/allowing the death of a child.
- Victims will be allowed to attend parole hearings if they wish and can ask questions during submissions.