Despite the UK government's overcrowding release scheme, officials have assured that those convicted for recent riots will not be released early. Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds emphasized that rioters will not benefit from the early release policy, which allows inmates to be released after serving 40% of their sentences due to prison overcrowding. However, a former prison governor suggested that rioters might still meet the criteria for early release since they received sentences under four years. Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood confirmed that only violent offenders serving four years or more, sex offenders, and those convicted of domestic abuse would be excluded from this scheme. Critics, including Tory leadership candidates, have voiced concerns over the government's handling of sentencing for violent protests, arguing it showcases a discrepancy between Labour's campaign rhetoric and actual policy. As the situation remains fluid, authorities are on high alert amid fears of potential further riots.