Andy Burnham has called for an end to indefinite jail terms, saying the system is unfair and does not help rehabilitate offenders.
Mayor's Criticism of IPP Sentences
The Greater Manchester mayor said the imprisonment for public protection (IPP) sentences, which were abolished in 2012 but still affect thousands of prisoners, create uncertainty and hinder progress.
Burnham argued that prisoners serving IPP sentences often do not know when they will be released, which undermines efforts to reform and reintegrate them into society.
Impact on Prisoners
He highlighted that many IPP prisoners have served their original tariff but remain in jail because they cannot prove they are no longer a risk. This leads to long-term detention without a fixed end date.
Burnham's comments come amid growing calls for reform of the IPP system, which has been criticized by justice campaigners and politicians across parties.
Call for Action
The mayor urged the government to take action, describing the current situation as a 'scandal' that needs urgent attention. He said the focus should be on rehabilitation and giving prisoners a clear path to release.
His remarks add to pressure on ministers to address the legacy of IPP sentences, which continue to affect around 3,000 prisoners in England and Wales.
