UN Expert Demands Justice: Calls for Resentencing of UK Prisoners on Indefinite Terms Amid Justice System Crisis

Prison dilemma: UN torture authority brands UK's endless detentions a 'terrible condemnation' of the justice system, as numerous inmates face unending sentences

In an exclusive interview with Sky News, Alice Jill Edwards argues that the incoming Labour administration must pledge to reevaluate the sentences of prisoners indefinitely confined with scant prospects for freedom.

Political correspondent @Journoamrogers

Monday, August 19, 2024, 6:

The UN's top expert on torture has stated that many inmates held in prison for an extended period without resolution are entitled to "justice" and should be prioritized for resentencing.

In an interview with Sky News, Alice Jill Edwards labeled imprisonment for public protection (IPP) sentences as a "terrible condemnation of the British justice system".

Prime Minister faces decline in polls following election – latest in politics

In 2005, the Labour government introduced the IPP (Imprisonment for Public Protection), which enabled courts to hand down sentences without

In 2012, the coalition government eliminated them, yet the new rules were not implemented retroactively. As a result, around 2,852 inmates are still incarcerated, 1,227 of whom have never been set free.

Ms. Edwards, the United Nations' special envoy on torture and abusive practices, urged the newly formed government to engage in a comprehensive or partial review and resentencing of individuals currently incarcerated.

Sir Keir Starmer's government is currently dealing with a severe overcrowding issue, prompting the implementation of an urgent protocol that permits suspects to be detained in police cells for extended periods.

Ms. Edwards expressed her disappointment that recent actions, such as the early release of prisoners, did not extend to individuals serving IPP sentences, which she has earlier labeled as a kind of "psychological torture."

For an optimal video experience, kindly utilize the Chrome browser.

"Meeting the demands of the audience"

Ms. Edwards, having communicated with the government regarding the matter, expressed her hope that Labour’s emphasis on decreasing the number of inmates could lead to significant reforms that would finally resolve the IPP controversy.

IPP was designed for offenders involved in violent or sexual crimes who were considered a serious threat to public safety, yet whose offenses did not justify a life sentence.

Despite intentions to safeguard the public, there was increasing worry that IPP sentences were excessively wide-ranging, ensnaring not only serious criminals but also lesser offenders, who then found themselves incarcerated far longer than their original sentences dictated.

Stay informed with the newest updates from the UK and across the globe by tuning into Sky News.

Individuals subject to an Imprisonment for Public Protection (IPP) sentence must complete their minimum term and receive authorization from the Parole Board before they can be released.

Ms. Edwards stated that "the only way to appease the public" and simultaneously honor the rights of IPP prisoners is through "complete or partial resentencing."

The primary concern raised by the former Conservative administration regarding the reconsideration of sentences was the potential threat to public safety. However, Ms. Edwards suggested that the government could phase the process, ensuring that individuals convicted of the most severe offenses remained incarcerated.

Further reading: Sister appeals to prison minister regarding her brother’s incarceration. Ministers accused of using 'deceptive' assertions to support endless detention.

"An appalling controversy"

Since 2005, 90 inmates serving indeterminate sentences for public protection (IPP) have died by suicide in prison.

Ms. Edwards pointed out instances where individuals convicted of minor offenses, such as theft of a mobile phone, were still incarcerated over ten years later.

She described the persistence of such cases years after the sentences were dissolved as a "horrible disgrace," leading people to "doubt the integrity of the judicial system."

"She cautioned that it results in a loss of public trust in the British justice system, which is quite concerning."

"I would certainly commend the authorities if they acted promptly and ensured justice was served for these people."

A spokesperson from the Ministry of Justice stated that Shabana Mahmood, the secretary of state, is dedicated to collaborating with various organizations and advocacy groups to determine the proper steps to assist individuals who are still incarcerated under the rightfully eliminated IPP sentences.

"They added that they will thoughtfully review the issues mentioned and provide a comprehensive response when appropriate."

If you're experiencing emotional distress or suicidal thoughts, you can reach out to the Samaritans for assistance by dialing 116 123 or by emailing jo@samaritans.org if you're in the UK. In the US, contact your local Samaritans branch or call 1 (800) 273-TALK for support.

Associated Subjects

Footer of Sky News

Information about Sky News

Services Provided by Sky News

Channels on Sky

Additional Sky Websites