UK Government Unveils Emergency Prison Plan Amid Overcrowding Crisis

The UK government has announced emergency measures to address the severe overcrowding crisis in prisons, including the early release of prisoners starting September. Labour's justice minister, Shabana Mahmood, highlighted the urgency of the situation, warning of a potential 'total breakdown of law and order' if actions are not taken promptly. The plan also involves additional recruitment to manage the crisis, although the head of the probation service expressed concerns over the feasibility of implementing these measures in time. The overcrowding issue has been described as 'unforgivable' by critics, prompting calls for immediate action to ensure the safety and order within the UK's penal system.