PLANS are being put forward for a new law to help to reduce the numbers of newly released prisoners from reoffending, giving them a second chance away from a life of crime.

Simon Fell, the Conservative MP for Barrow and Furness, put forward a Private Members’ Bill in Parliament on Friday, December 2.

Talking about his commitment to help those ex-prisoners who want to change their lives, Simon said the Offenders (Day of Release from Detention) Bill is a simple law that could make a big difference to those who have just been released and want a fresh start away from crime.

Mr Fell said: “Currently people released from prison on Fridays face a race against time to access their probation worker and support on issues such as housing, benefits, and healthcare before the weekend. This leaves some temporarily homeless, and at a heightened risk of reoffending.

“One in every three offenders is released on a Friday despite them facing these challenges and the data showing that offenders released just before a weekend or bank holiday face a higher rate of re-offending.

“My Bill gives prison governors the discretion to release vulnerable offenders up to 48 hours earlier so that they can access the statutory services they most need, and to cut reoffending.

“I have seen through my work on the Home Affairs Committee, and to talking to charities in Furness, just what Friday releases can mean - nights on the streets, a return to offending, and criminal gangs all too willing to swoop in and help, but with a heavy cost.

“This simple change in the law will cut reoffending, save the criminal justice system time and money, and improve outcomes for offenders who have served their time.”

The Bill has gained cross party support across Parliament, with the Shadow Minister of Justice confirming the Opposition’s support.

Prisons Minister, the Right Honourable Damian Hinds MP said: “I have pleasure in confirming the Government’s support for this Bill, and I look forward to seeing it progress through this House.”

The Bill will now progress to committee stage, where MPs will be able to scrutinise further, and make suggestions for amendments, before returning to the Commons for its third reading.

If the Bill goes through seamlessly then it will be presented to His Majesty the King for his seal of approval before becoming an Act of Law, expected to be around February next year.