Mark Pritchard

Mark Pritchard

Conservative — The Wrekin

Speaking in the House of Commons on 27 October 2025

Debate

Prisoner Release Checks

Contribution

May I say to the Justice Secretary that referring to the last Government’s record is wearing a bit thin? This Government have been in power for over 12 months, so what he says is not going to wash with the British public. May I also say to him that I think he does his calm better than he does his livid? In response to my hon. Friend the Member for North Dorset (Simon Hoare), I think he paraphrased his own statement, but his statement clearly says: “Over the weekend, I chaired three operational meetings with the police.” Hon. Members will know that we can attend strategy meetings, but we never interfere with operational matters. The House, members of the public and police officers deserve clarity about that. He also said: “Members will be aware that there are national security considerations within a case like this.” We are talking about a criminal conviction made in open court, so what are those national security implications? Finally—so he knows that I have not been too tough on him today—I commend his decision to appoint Dame Lynne Owens; she is a first-class public servant.

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