Andy Burnham criticized over domestic violence concerns in early release scheme

Andy Burnham is facing criticism from domestic violence campaigners regarding the Labour government’s proposed early release scheme. Paola Diana, Executive Chair of the Women’s Policy Centre, warned that the scheme could leave domestic abusers on the streets because voluntary manslaughter has not been included in the list of offences subject to tougher restrictions.

While ministers are reportedly considering exemptions for those convicted of unlawful manslaughter to prevent the early release of specific killers, Diana argued that omitting voluntary manslaughter is “completely illogical.” She noted that voluntary manslaughter often involves killings with mitigating factors and that the victims are predominantly women and children. Campaigners expressed concern that convicted abusers could be released back into the communities of their victims.