Prison numbers will hit a record high by 2026 – David Lammy responds

David Lammy MP, Labour’s Shadow Justice Secretary, responding to analysis of government figures showing prison numbers will hit a record high with an increase of 20,000 prisoners by 2026, said:

"These shocking figures show how badly the Conservative government is failing to prevent crime from happening on our streets.

"Conservative cuts to youth services, education, housing, local government, drugs treatment, the police, prisons, probation and the justice system have demonstrated how little this government cares about keeping the public safe.

"Crumbling, overcrowded and dangerous prisons are leading to endless cycles of re-offending. Ministers need to announce a proper plan to rehabilitate prisoners as well as taking steps to address the causes of crime to stop it from happening in the first place."

Notes to editors:

• An analysis of the Government data shows the numbers will rise by 25 per cent from 77,912 last month to 98,700 by 2026 https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2021/07/05/prisoner-numbers-hit-record-high-99000-behind-bars-2026/