Summary
The Bar Council has proposed Covid-style lockdown measures, such as 20-hour curfews and enhanced home detention, as alternatives to incarceration for non-violent offenders in England and Wales.
In a sentencing review led by former justice secretary David Gauke, the council also suggested adopting Sweden’s “part-time prisons,” where inmates can work and maintain family ties.
The proposals aim to address prison overcrowding, with the system expected to face a shortage of 12,400 places by 2027.
Critics argue current policies haven’t reduced crime or reoffending rates, urging a focus on rehabilitation.
While we’re at it, can we also focus on improving the material conditions of criminals so there’s no need for them to re-offend?