The UK government has announced a pause to its planned early prisoner release scheme following growing public concern and criticism from victims' families. The policy, which was due to begin in September, would have allowed some eligible prisoners to be released earlier than previously planned as part of wider efforts to reduce overcrowding in prisons.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said the scheme will now undergo an urgent review before any prisoners are released under the new rules. The decision came after concerns that some offenders convicted of serious crimes, including violent and sexual offences, could become eligible for earlier release.

Victims' groups and the family of murdered police officer PC Andrew Harper welcomed the pause, arguing that public safety and justice for victims must remain the government's highest priorities. Prison officers and probation staff have also raised concerns about whether the system is fully prepared to manage the changes safely.

The government has said no prisoners will be released under the paused scheme until the review is complete and any necessary changes have been made. Ministers are expected to provide further details in the next few days.