England and Wales Prison Recalls Reach 48,327, Up 29% Amid Overcrowding Reforms

Prison recalls across England and Wales reached 48,327 in the past year, a 29 percent increase from 37,573 in 2024, according to Ministry of Justice figures reported by GB News. This total more than doubles the 21,467 recalls recorded in 2015. The rise coincides with emergency measures introduced in September 2024 to tackle severe overcrowding in prisons.

Under the SDS40 scheme launched that month, 60,108 inmates have been released early after serving 40 percent of their sentences. 8 percent at 5,917. 9 percent.

8 percent served between six and 12 months. HMP Humber near Hull led with 1,827 early releases, followed by Fosse Way in Leicester at 1,646. The Ministry of Justice acknowledged the SDS40 scheme likely contributed to the increase in prisoners being returned to custody.

The total prison population now stands at 85,704, down from a record peak of 88,521 in September 2024. 3 percent a year earlier. 8 percent.

GB News highlighted the case of Zahid Iqbal, one of four men who plotted to bomb an Army base in Luton in 2013. Iqbal was jailed for life with a custodial sentence of at least 11 years and three months, including a five-year extension period. Earlier this year, the parole board ruled that Iqbal could be released early, prompting Justice Secretary David Lammy to intervene with a new review of the case.

Iqbal had been released in 2021 but was recalled in 2023 due to contact with extremist links.