Defence Secretary Wes Streeting has apologized for remarks he made that appeared to make light of a government scheme for the early release of prisoners. The comments, which were captured on video and published by the news website Guido Fawkes, were made as Justice Secretary Alex Norris approached Streeting and Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood.
In the video, Streeting is heard referring to Norris as "the enemy now" and suggesting he "wants to let them all out," an apparent reference to the government's plans for early prisoner release. These remarks drew criticism from Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, who accused Streeting's cabinet of joking about releasing criminals while Conservatives would listen to victims.
Streeting and Mahmood both issued apologies, emphasizing that the early release scheme is a serious matter. Streeting explained on X that his comment was a reference to an old joke between former Prime Ministers May and Ken Clarke, and that there was "no ill intent." He expressed regret for any offense caused by the "moment of levity."
Mahmood similarly stated that her remarks were not intended to show a lack of serious intent regarding the "extremely serious issue" of prisoner release. She referenced the challenges of the justice system, attributing them to the previous Conservative government.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander affirmed that Streeting's apology was appropriate and that the remarks did not reflect the seriousness with which the government approaches public safety and the prison system.
The Labour government announced emergency measures for early prisoner release shortly after coming to power in 2024, aimed at alleviating prison overcrowding. At one point, the Prison Governors' Association had warned that prisons were nearing capacity. Alexander defended these measures as "difficult but necessary decisions" to ensure the functioning of the prison system, preventing a situation where courts could not sentence offenders due to a lack of available spaces.