Question proposed, That the clause stand part of the Bill.

In what circumstances would the Secretary of State consider it so urgent to release a prisoner under licence that he would be unable to consult the Parole Board? I find it difficult to conceive of such circumstances. Changes could be made to the prison regime on extreme compassionate grounds, but actual release, without consideration by the Parole Board, seems unlikely. The Minister obviously has something in mind. Will he share it with the Committee?

Yes. The circumstances would be those in which death was imminent. A request would be received for compassionate release because someone was terminally ill, but it may not always be possible to carry out the consultation for which the clause would otherwise provide. Subsection (2) covers that particular, albeit rare, eventuality.

Question put and agreed to.

Clause 227 ordered to stand part of the Bill.

Clause 228 ordered to stand part of the Bill.