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Legal News

Prison Numbers Fall In England and Wales (18 October 2011)

Date: 18/10/2011
Duncan Lewis, Legal News Solicitors, Prison Numbers Fall In England and Wales

The prison population in England and Wales has fallen following reaching record highs as a result of the summer’s civil unrest. The prison population now stands at 87,551, meaning that prisons are now operating at more than 1,250 under capacity. Ministers had vowed that there was room in prison for anyone who received a sentence for violence or looting in English cities during the riots in August. Following the civil unrest, the number of children held on remand increase by almost a quarter. In August, 577 under-18s were held on remand - up 23 per cent on the 469 held on remand in July, the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) revealed. Campaigners have voiced their disappointment with the number of children held on remand.

The usable operational prison capacity in England and Wales - the level at which prisons can successfully be controlled, maintained securely, and operated satisfactorily - is 88,818. MoJ figures revealed that defendants charged with offences relating to the riots were increasingly likely to be held on remand in comparison to those charged with similar offences unrelated to public disorder. Those convicted of crimes relating to rioting were found to be jailed for longer; those charged with violent disorder were handed average sentences of 10.4 months – up from an average of 5.3 months the previous year.

Duncan Lewis’ prison law solicitors represent prisoners throughout the UK. The department is committed to standing up for the rights of prisoners and can provide legal advice to those who require it.

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