The plan proposed by Nigel Farage to construct prefabricated ad-hoc prisons has been criticized by the prisons minister as “absolutely ridiculous.” James Timpson, a seasoned figure in the justice sector, expressed concerns about the safety of such “papier-mache” jails for both staff and the public, dismissing the idea put forth by the Reform UK leader.
Ahead of Reform UK’s upcoming annual conference in Birmingham, focusing on justice, crime, and migration issues following Mr. Farage’s ‘Lawless Britain’ campaign, Minister Timpson voiced his strong opposition to the concept. Farage’s proposal involved allocating £5 billion to develop five low-security ‘Nightingale’ prisons on Ministry of Defence land, inspired by the temporary Nightingale hospitals erected during the pandemic, aiming to provide over 12,000 spaces for less risky offenders.
In response to the suggestion, Lord Timpson emphasized the necessity of secure prisons, highlighting the importance of ensuring the safety of staff and nearby residents. Additionally, Farage proposed creating an additional 10,000 jail spaces by sending serious criminals abroad to serve their sentences, with an estimated cost of £1.25 billion.
When questioned about the potential outsourcing of prison cells to other countries, Lord Timpson emphasized Labour’s justice system reform efforts, including the commitment to constructing 14,000 prison spaces, as the primary focus. He underscored the importance of a sustainable justice system that prioritizes the well-being of victims, staff, and the public.
The Labour government recently introduced the Sentencing Bill, aiming to address prison overcrowding issues by rewarding well-behaving offenders with earlier release dates, drawing inspiration from the Texas justice system. The bill also includes measures to enhance community punishments, such as imposing travel, driving, and football bans. However, Labour faces a challenge from Reform UK in the polls, potentially jeopardizing the implementation of significant justice system reforms if Farage assumes office.
Expressing confidence in evidence-based decision-making, Lord Timpson emphasized the importance of data-driven policies that reduce reoffending, protect the public, and support victims. Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood has set a deadline of six months to resolve the prisons overcrowding crisis decisively.
Reform UK has been approached for a response but has not yet provided comments.
