Public split on Raab plan for convicts to fill labour shortages

A new poll has suggested the public are split on Dominic Raab’s plans to fill labour shortages with prisoners.

YouGov surveyed 3,659 Great British adults on the justice secretary’s plans, asking them whether they would support or oppose using low-level offenders on day release from prison to help fill the current shortage of lorry drivers.

43% expressed strong or mild support for the plans, while 40% opposed or strongly opposed. A further 17% expressed they weren’t sure.

Last week, the Raab, who is also deputy prime minister, told LBC that giving inmates a purpose would cut reoffending. “If we give them hope, if we give them something to lose, they’re much much more likely to go straight and that’s good for society, it’s good for the public because it cuts crime.”

Raab added, “I can demonstrate it works, this is making your community and the public safer – this is just win-win. It’s smart policy and it’s smart politics.”