Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has delivered a blistering assessment of Britain's crumbling prison system, comparing jails to "paper mache" and branding the government's emergency measures a catastrophic failure of justice.
The prominent political figure launched his astonishing broadside during a campaign event in Clacton, Essex, where he declared the entire penal system fundamentally broken beyond repair.
"Our prisons are made of paper mache," Farage declared to supporters. "We're letting people out of prison early to make space. What sort of country are we living in?"
His comments come amid growing crisis in the UK's prison network, with severe overcrowding forcing authorities to implement an early release scheme that has sparked widespread controversy.
System in Meltdown
The justice system is facing unprecedented pressure, with inmate numbers reaching critical levels while capacity dwindles. This has compelled the Ministry of Justice to initiate measures that see certain offenders released up to 70 days early.
Farage didn't hold back in his criticism, stating: "We have a justice system that is failing in every single possible way. We need to build adequate prison capacity."
Political Reaction
The Reform UK leader's intervention places additional pressure on the government, which has been grappling with this crisis for months. Opposition parties have also criticised the early release scheme, though Farage's language represents some of the most forceful condemnation to date.
His comments reflect growing public concern about crime and punishment in the UK, issues that have become central to political debate as election campaigning intensifies.
With prison conditions deteriorating and public safety concerns mounting, Farage's "paper mache" characterization seems likely to resonate with voters frustrated by what many perceive as a broken system.
