Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, what steps the Government is taking to bring about the release of prisoners subject to a sentence of imprisonment for public protection who have served their tariff.

The release of prisoners serving indeterminate sentences of Imprisonment for Public Protection (IPP) who have completed their tariff is a matter for the independent Parole Board. Before directing the release of an IPP prisoner, the Board must be satisfied that his detention is no longer necessary for the protection of the public.

Her Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) have worked hard in supporting the Parole Board to reduce significantly the backlog of oral hearings for IPP prisoners. Earlier this year, HMPPS set up a new unit to support this effort has now embedded the learning in all pre-release casework, so as to enhance the efficiency of the parole process.

HMPPS is focused on giving IPP prisoners the support, opportunities and motivation they need to progress more quickly when they are reviewed by the Parole Board so that they have the best possible prospect for securing release. HMPPS and the Parole Board have implemented a joint action plan, the purpose of which is to deliver further improvements and efficiencies in the effort to help IPP prisoners progress towards release. During 2016/17, 46% of all IPP prisoners considered by the Parole Board were released and 24% recommended for a move to open conditions.