Lammy Avoids Confirming Wrongful Release of Asylum Seeker Offenders

The recent accident involving the wrongful release of an asylum seeker has raised significant concerns regarding the safety and handling of offenders in the justice system. David Lammy, the Deputy Prime Minister and shadow justice secretary, is under scrutiny following the release of Hadush Kebatu, an Ethiopian national, who was wrongly set free last month. His release triggered a three-day manhunt before his deportation.

Government Accountability and Safety Measures

James Cartlidge, a Conservative MP, pressed Lammy for assurance that no other asylum seeker offenders have been mistakenly released from prison since Kebatu’s incident. Cartlidge emphasizes the need for accountability, urging Lammy to provide clarity on the situation.

Response from Lammy

In response to Cartlidge’s inquiries, Lammy asserted that he is committed to ensuring the integrity of the justice system. He stated that since the incident, the government has implemented the most stringent checks ever seen within the prison system.

• Hadush Kebatu’s accidental release occurred last month.
• His release prompted a three-day manhunt.
• Kebatu has since been deported.
• Lammy acknowledged the need for further checks and balances in the system.
• He highlighted complications inherited from previous administrations.

During the exchange, Lammy urged Cartlidge to “get a grip,” highlighting the pressures he faces as both the justice secretary and deputy prime minister. However, he refrained from speculating about the outcomes of Dame Lynne Owens’s ongoing investigation into the incident. Lammy stressed that it is crucial for Owens to conduct her inquiry without interference.

Call for Responsibility

Cartlidge’s questioning reflects a broader concern within the House regarding the management of the justice system. He insists that as the current justice secretary, Lammy should provide clear answers about the safety of the public and potential lapses in the penal system.

As this situation unfolds, it underscores the importance of effective oversight in the management of asylum seekers and offenders to prevent similar incidents in the future. The implications of Kebatu’s wrongful release demand thorough scrutiny to uphold public safety and restore confidence in the justice system.