Too many offenders are being jailed, former Tory PM Sir John Major says

The ex-Tory leader argued that ‘pointless’ short-term prison sentences are being imposed where non-custodial measures would be more effective.

Former prime minister Sir John Major (Dominic Lipinski/PA) (PA Archive)

The UK is locking up too many offenders, former prime minister Sir John Major has said, as he warned against “excessive zeal” to be tough on crime leading to “unwise policy”.

The ex-Tory leader argued that “pointless” short-term prison sentences are being imposed in cases where non-custodial measures would be more effective and fair.

He also urged the new Justice Secretary to abandon Dominic Raab’s proposals to give ministers more power to block Parole Board decisions, warning the system should not be unduly pressured by public campaigns.