Confusion has erupted over the UK government's prison early release scheme, which reportedly remains on course to begin in September despite Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham ordering a review of the policy. The row was sparked by condemnation from the widow of a police officer who was killed, adding pressure on ministers over a scheme that critics say could see dangerous offenders freed ahead of their full sentence. The controversy highlights ongoing tension between efforts to ease prison overcrowding and public concern about the risks of releasing offenders early.

Despite the review being ordered, officials indicate the September timetable for the scheme has not been changed, leaving campaigners and victims' families uncertain about what, if anything, will be altered before it takes effect. The intervention by the police officer's widow has amplified scrutiny of the policy, though the full detail of the review's scope and its potential impact on the scheme's rollout was not made clear.