The Justice secretary has activated Operation Safeguard to house prisoners in police cells due to overcrowding in jails, with only 824 places left in the adult male estate. This emergency measure will free up hundreds of cells but could cost the government millions, with previous activation costing £30.2 million between February and July 2023. The Police Federation of England and Wales has expressed concerns about officers being diverted from core duties and facing additional dangers, as the prison estate is deemed to be in crisis by the Public Accounts Committee.
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PMQs live: Badenoch hits Starmer with ‘emergency budget’ jab about upcoming spring statement
Kemi Badenoch criticized the government's handling of the economy, questioning the need for an emergency budget following the Chancellor's recent budget announcement. Sir Keir Starmer defended Labour's economic record, highlighting record investment, interest rate cuts, and rising wages under their leadership. The government's proposed overhaul of the benefits system, including changes to Pip eligibility, has sparked backlash for being seen as targeting the poorest in society to balance public finances. Full Article
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