The UK Government has announced that prisoners convicted of manslaughter and child sexual offences will not be eligible for early release under a temporary scheme aimed at reducing pressure on the country’s overcrowded prisons.

The measure is part of wider efforts by the government to address overcrowding within the prison system while maintaining protections for victims and the public.

Under the scheme, eligible prisoners could be released before completing their full custodial sentences, subject to the conditions set by the government.

However, offenders convicted of serious crimes, including manslaughter and child sexual offences, have been excluded from the arrangement.

The government said the restrictions were necessary to ensure that early release did not compromise public safety or undermine confidence in the justice system.

The move comes amid continuing pressure on prison capacity in England and Wales, with authorities seeking ways to manage the growing prison population.

Officials said the government would continue to monitor the prison system and take further measures where necessary.

The latest decision is expected to reassure victims’ groups and campaigners who have raised concerns about the release of offenders convicted of serious crimes.