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Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said he will review the Government’s early prisoner release scheme after concerns that two men convicted over the killing of PC Andrew Harper could be released from prison earlier than expected. Burnham said he would examine the policy with Justice Secretary Alex Norris before it proceeds, amid growing criticism from the police, opposition politicians and PC Harper’s family.

The controversy centres on Albert Bowers and Jessie Cole, who were convicted of manslaughter in 2020 and each sentenced to 13 years in custody. They were passengers in the vehicle involved in PC Harper’s death and may be eligible for release after serving half their sentences under the new Sentencing Act arrangements due to begin in September.

PC Harper, a Thames Valley Police officer, died in 2019 after being dragged behind a car while responding to a report of a quad bike theft. The case prompted national outrage and later led to Harper’s Law, which introduced mandatory life sentences for offenders who kill emergency workers while committing a crime.

Burnham said the “main perpetrator” in PC Harper’s killing would not be subject to early release. That refers to Henry Long, who was given a 16-year extended sentence after being convicted of manslaughter.

The Prime Minister said he understood the pressure on prison places but wanted to assure himself that every part of the policy had been examined before it went further. He said he could not promise to change the policy completely, but would look at it in detail with the Justice Secretary.

Debbie Adlam, PC Harper’s mother, has strongly criticised the possibility that Bowers and Cole could be released early. She described the prospect as an insult to her son’s memory and said the news had left her feeling sick.

The early release scheme is intended to ease pressure on overcrowded prisons, with thousands of offenders expected to be affected during its first months. Critics argue that the policy risks damaging public confidence in the justice system if it applies to offenders convicted of serious violence.

STORY

British Transport Police have released an image of a woman they want to identify after a member of rail staff was assaulted at Ilford railway station in east London. Officers are investigating the incident and believe the woman shown in the images may have information which could assist their enquiries.

The incident happened shortly before 5pm on 22 May, when a woman passed through the station’s ticket barriers without paying. British Transport Police said she was challenged and then responded by spitting in a member of rail staff’s face.

The woman then quickly left the station. Officers have now issued the images as part of an appeal to the public for help identifying her.

Anyone who recognises the woman is asked to contact British Transport Police by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40. The force has asked people to quote reference 530 of 22 May when providing information.

Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. British Transport Police said the investigation remains ongoing.

STORY

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has told President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that the UK’s support for Ukraine will remain unchanged under his new Government. The two leaders spoke by phone on Monday afternoon, shortly after Burnham entered Downing Street as Prime Minister.

Downing Street said Burnham reaffirmed his and the UK’s “resolute commitment” to the people of Ukraine. He also underlined that there would be no change in Britain’s approach, including continued pressure on Russia.

The call was one of Burnham’s first international engagements as Prime Minister and was intended to signal continuity in UK foreign policy. Britain has been one of Ukraine’s most prominent European supporters since Russia’s full-scale invasion.

The two leaders also discussed Burnham’s previous work with Ukrainian mayors during his time as Mayor of Greater Manchester. Downing Street said they spoke about the UNBROKEN Cities Network, which provides rehabilitation support to Ukraine.

Burnham offered his deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of Ukrainians killed in recent Russian attacks. The call came as Ukraine continues to face missile and drone strikes against civilian and infrastructure targets.

The Prime Minister invited Zelenskyy to visit the UK at the earliest opportunity. Downing Street said Burnham looked forward to discussing how Britain and Ukraine could strengthen defence for both Ukraine and Europe as a whole.

The invitation suggests that defence co-operation with Ukraine will remain an early priority for the new Government. Burnham has already indicated that support for Ukraine, NATO and European security will form a central part of his foreign policy approach.

STORY

Burnham and Trump discuss defence and Middle East in first call

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has spoken to United States President Donald Trump shortly after taking office, in his first reported call with the American leader since entering Downing Street. The Prime Minister began by congratulating Trump on a successful World Cup and the two leaders agreed that England had had an excellent tournament.

Burnham also said he hoped to show Trump what Manchester had to offer during a future visit. Downing Street said the new Prime Minister used the call to set out his vision for Government, including a focus on reindustrialisation across the country and delivering growth in every postcode.

The Prime Minister also underlined his commitment to defence and security, saying the protection of the UK and its allies would be at the top of his agenda. The call came on Burnham’s first afternoon in office, following the formal transfer of power from Sir Keir Starmer.

Trump updated Burnham on the situation in the Middle East. Burnham said the UK remained committed to securing the movement of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, which Downing Street linked to supporting global supply chains and helping to drive down costs for businesses and families.

The call signals early continuity in the UK’s relationship with the United States under Burnham’s premiership, particularly on defence, allied security and international trade routes. Downing Street said the two leaders looked forward to speaking again soon.