The plan put forth by Nigel Farage to construct prefabricated makeshift prisons has been strongly criticized by the prisons minister, James Timpson, who deemed the idea as “absolutely ridiculous.” Timpson, with extensive experience in the justice sector, expressed concerns that such “papier-mache” jails would pose safety risks to both staff and the public.
The criticism comes ahead of Reform UK’s upcoming annual conference, set to focus on justice, crime, and migration issues following Farage’s ‘Lawless Britain’ campaign. As part of his initiative, Farage proposed the construction of five low-security ‘Nightingale’ prisons on Ministry of Defence land, inspired by the temporary Nightingale hospitals during the pandemic, to accommodate over 12,000 lower-risk offenders.
Timpson dismissed the feasibility of Farage’s proposal, emphasizing the need for secure and safe prisons due to the nature of housing dangerous individuals. In contrast, the Labour government introduced the Sentencing Bill this week to prevent prison overcrowding, offering incentives for good behavior to reduce sentences.
While Labour aims to strengthen community punishments, including implementing stricter measures like travel and driving bans, Reform UK’s alternative approach has led to a divergence in public opinion. Timpson highlighted the importance of evidence-based decisions in shaping the justice system to reduce reoffending, protect the public, and support victims.
Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood pledged to address the prisons overcrowding crisis within six months, signaling a commitment to finding long-term solutions. Reform UK is yet to comment on the criticisms raised against its proposed prison strategies.