Recommendation 20

HM Government · verbatim extract Deferred

53. We are introducing the Progression Model as recommended by the Independent Sentencing Review; a new model inspired by Texas where bad behaviour (for example violence or possession of a mobile phone) could mean more time in custody. We have already delivered this recommendation by publishing a factsheet7 which provides further details about the Progression Model, including how we are going to deliver it. 54. We are working across agencies to prepare and plan for implementation of the changes, and this Government is committed to ensuring that measures impacting sentencing and release are introduced safely, transparently and in a way that protects the public. 55. We have an established process for punishing bad behaviour and rule breaches in prison—but it needs to be tougher. Alongside the Bill we are bringing forward secondary legislation to double the maximum punishment for serious rule-breaking from 42 days to 84 days per incident. There will be no automatic release for badly behaved prisoners—they could stay in prison until the end of their sentence. 56. Under our model, release at the earlier point is theirs to lose; if they do not comply, they can be locked up for longer—potentially up to the end of their sentence. It is a clear system that punishes bad behaviour. 57. Whilst the Progression Model will not commence until after the Sentencing Bill receives Royal Assent, we have already published a Factsheet providing further details about the Model.