Top security prisons housing some of the UK's most dangerous serial killers and rapists are being told to prepare for war, as the government's new 'Be Ready' campaign urges households to stock up on emergency supplies.
The campaign marks the beginning of a three-year drive to boost household emergency preparedness, with Defence Secretary Wes Streeting unveiling updated advice. Britons have been told to prepare for food shortages and widespread disruption from cyber attacks and emergencies under the new national initiative.
Prison Insiders Warn of Space and Supply Concerns
Prison insiders say there are very real fears about what will happen with Britain's most dangerous individuals. An insider told the Daily Star Sunday: "Prisons are already crammed in as it is, we are nearly at capacity."
"So much so, that some prisoners have been released early as we know. There isn't exactly an abundance of space to be storing spam tins by the hundreds or all the water that would be needed for inmates to wash and drink. It's been a concern behind the scenes. A very real one."
Households Advised to Stock Emergency Kits
UK households are advised to take simple steps in case everyday services are disrupted, like keeping a three-day supply of cash, bottled water and tinned food at home. Sales of tinned food, wind-up radios and torches have all spiked since the updated government guidance was announced.
The insider continued: "It is a well known rumour that if we went into a serious war it is more than likely that there would be a lot of prisoners coming out early."
"We simply would not be able to cope with the current prisoner levels in the event of a world war. It would not be feasible. And it is the same thinking with these Be Prepared plans."
Historical Precedents and Ministry Response
It is believed the Ministry of Justice maintains confidential, updated emergency protocols for national security crises and historical precedents, such as World Wars One and Two. In World War Two some prisoners were released early as things started to get bad between the warring nations.
"We are trying our hardest, but with limited budgets and limited space - there is only so much we can do. Basically everyone is praying it doesn't amount to anything," the insider added.
The Ministry of Justice did not provide details on what plans they have in place for should the worst hit. But a spokesman for Prisons said: "Prisons already have well-established plans in place to manage any potential disruption and make sure meals continue to be provided."
