Prime Minister Andy Burnham has announced significant changes to the early release scheme, confirming that the killers of PC Andrew Harper will remain in prison. The new policy excludes anyone convicted of unlawful killing, including all forms of manslaughter, from early release, a move that directly affects two of the officers' convicted murderers.

PC Harper, 28, was tragically killed in 2019 while responding to a burglary in Berkshire. He was dragged along a road by a vehicle as three teenagers fled the scene after stealing a quad bike. The case garnered significant public attention and sparked passionate campaigning from PC Harper's family and former colleagues who urged the government to intervene and prevent the early release of those convicted of manslaughter.

In an exclusive interview with BBC Breakfast, Prime Minister Burnham stated that he understood the concerns raised. "Nobody would want a position to arise where those guilty of killing a police officer are let out early from prison," he told the BBC, acknowledging the widespread sentiment. The announcement means that hundreds more individuals will now remain in prison, a consequence of the scheme's revision in a system already operating at over 97% capacity in England and Wales.

PC Harper's mother, Debbie Adlam, welcomed the prime minister's decision, expressing gratitude for the outcome but also concern for others affected by the broader prison system. "I am glad and really grateful that this has been the outcome for us, but I worry immensely for those it doesn't happen for," she said, adding that "realistically, the overall system has left some huge gaps still."

The decision is expected to be welcomed by many within the policing community and the public. Thames Valley Police, PC Harper's former force, issued a statement indicating the announcement would be met with approval by many across policing and communities. Chief Constable Jason Hogg expressed hope that the change would provide reassurance to PC Harper's family, as well as other victims and bereaved families, reinforcing confidence that serious offenses are treated with due gravity.

Mr. Burnham also outlined measures to create additional prison space, including ending Imprisonment for Public Protection (IPP) sentences. These sentences, issued between 2005 and 2012, were for offenders deemed a significant risk to the public. Release under IPP is contingent on the Parole Board being satisfied that the individual no longer poses a threat.

Furthermore, the government plans to create more prison capacity by deporting foreign national offenders and releasing inmates serving indefinite sentences, alongside the revised early release criteria. These combined measures aim to address the critical issue of prison overcrowding while responding to public and police concerns regarding serious offenses.

The precise number of individuals who will be affected by the exclusion from the early release scheme remains to be fully detailed. However, the government's commitment to keeping those convicted of unlawful killing incarcerated, particularly in cases involving the death of a police officer, marks a significant shift in policy.