The Ministry of Justice says it will “carefully consider” the proposed law change having previously announced plans to curb Friday releases, acknowledging it “will reduce reoffending and make our streets safer”.
A move to end Friday prison releases would help stop freed inmates walking straight back into the arms of criminal gangs, campaigners have said.
Supporters of the change argue it would tackle the “dreaded race against the clock” in which former prisoners struggle to access housing, benefits and healthcare services before the weekend, leaving some temporarily homeless and increasing the risk of reoffending.
Backbench legislation has been proposed in parliament that would give prison governors discretion to release those most at risk up to 48 hours earlier to ensure they can receive assistance.
The Ministry of Justice has said it will “carefully consider” the Offenders (Day of Release from Detention) Bill, which is due to be presented to the Commons by Conservative MP Simon Fell on 2 December.
