UK Opens 1,500-Place Prison to Address Overcrowding

The UK government has opened HMP Millsike, a new high-tech prison in Yorkshire designed to address the ongoing prison capacity crisis and reduce crime. This facility, which can hold nearly 1,500 inmates, is part of a broader initiative to create 14,000 additional prison places by 2031, as current facilities operate at over 99% capacity. Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood emphasized that while expanding prison infrastructure is vital, it alone will not resolve the issues, noting the need for sentencing reforms as well. HMP Millsike includes 24 workshops aimed at rehabilitating offenders and preparing them for employment upon release, thereby reducing recidivism rates. The prison is equipped with advanced security measures to combat the influx of drugs and contraband. Mahmood expressed that without such measures, the justice system could face catastrophic failures, necessitating urgent action to ensure public safety.