Story perspectives

PM Burnham to review Sentencing Act, ease overcrowding

7/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

Prime Minister Andy Burnham will review the Sentencing Act from September, saying it should ease prison overcrowding.
Widow Lissie Harper called the early release of Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers, each serving 13-year manslaughter sentences, deplorable, while Henry Long, serving 16 years for the getaway car, will not qualify.
Defence Secretary Wes Streeting apologized after his recorded comments on the releases, which Burnham said were unacceptable.

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Story summary

Prime Minister Andy Burnham will review the Sentencing Act from September, saying it should ease prison overcrowding.
Widow Lissie Harper called the early release of Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers, each serving 13-year manslaughter sentences, deplorable, while Henry Long, serving 16 years for the getaway car, will not qualify.
Defence Secretary Wes Streeting apologized after his recorded comments on the releases, which Burnham said were unacceptable.