Starmer’s First Move - Ending Our Addiction to Prison?

Mark Fairhurst, the National Chairman of the Prison Officers Association, returns to Double Jeopardy to further discuss the prison crisis, now a focal point in the first week of the new Labour government.

Guided by hosts Ken Macdonald and Tim Owen, the conversation addresses the emergency measures announced by the new Lord Chancellor, Shabana Mahmood, aimed at addressing critical prison overcrowding.

Amongst discussing historical context and years of inaction, the podcast also talks about the broader systemic changes needed, including probation service, mental health support and the role of the judiciary in sentencing reform. 

Ken and Tim also highlight the appointment of James Timpson as the new Prisons Minister and discuss his views on prison reform as well as the potential changes for the future of penal policy.