Streeting apologises after early prisoner release comments heard on mic
UK Cabinet ministers Wes Streeting and Mahmood have apologized after being caught on a hot mic joking about the government's early prisoner release scheme. The comments were criticized by the Conservative opposition as making light of a serious policy issue.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the political sensitivity of the prisoner release scheme and the risks of informal political discourse in a polarized environment.
Figure caption, Watch: Streeting and Mahmood heard on hot mic joking about early prisoner release scheme
Wes Streeting has said there was "no ill intent" behind comments he made about the early prisoner release scheme, which were caught on camera.
In a video, published by Guido Fawkes, the new Justice Secretary Alex Norris can be seen walking towards the pair and being greeted by the home secretary, Mahmood.
The new defence secretary, Streeting, can then be heard calling Norris "the enemy now" while the Mahmood responds "no he's not". Streeting goes on to say "he wants to let them all out" - appearing to reference the government's plans for early release for prisoners.
The comments have been criticised by Kemi Badenoch for making light of the scheme, which her party is in staunch opposition of.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in