Burnham suggests PC Harper case could trigger wider review of early release

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has appeared to suggest he could review the policy of early prisoner release amid concerns from the family of police officer Andrew Harper.

The constable’s mother said it feels like an “insult” that two of her son’s killers may be eligible for early release from prison.

Pc Harper was 28 years old when he sustained fatal injuries while responding to a quad bike theft in Sulhamstead, Berkshire, in August 2019.

He died after getting caught in a strap attached to the back of a car and dragged down a country road as three teenage suspects fled the scene of the burglary.

Speaking in Bath, Mr Burnham said: “I feel for the family it’s an appalling crime that was committed.

“The main perpetrator will not be subject to any early release. Of course, others involved have potentially been identified.”

He appeared to indicate the case could trigger a wider review of the policy to release prisoners early.

“But I’ve spoken to the new justice secretary. He will review the policy together and make further statements in due course.”