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Reconsideration Mechanism and the Parole Board Rules 2019
18 November 2025
Lead MP
Alberto Costa
South Leicestershire
Con
Responding Minister
Jake Richards
Tags
Justice & Courts
Word Count: 2570
Other Contributors: 0
At a Glance
Alberto Costa raised concerns about reconsideration mechanism and the parole board rules 2019 in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
The MP calls on the government to review and possibly amend the reconsideration mechanism rule to ensure finality in Parole Board decisions and prevent never-ending challenges from prisoners.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
The lead MP is concerned about the misuse of the reconsideration mechanism, which was intended to prevent dangerous prisoners from being wrongly released. The case of Colin Pitchfork, a serial rapist and murderer, demonstrates that this mechanism can be used repeatedly by prisoners to challenge decisions they do not like, causing legal uncertainty and distress for victims' families.
Government Response
Jake Richards
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice
Government Response
The Minister acknowledged the importance of the Parole Board’s reconsideration mechanism, noting that it was introduced following the case of John Worboys to ensure decisions could be challenged without lengthy judicial reviews. He stated that while there have been delays in Colin Pitchfork's case, these are unusual and not indicative of a wider abuse of the system. The Minister also mentioned measures being taken to strengthen ministerial oversight and improve transparency and victim involvement in Parole Board hearings.
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About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.