Largest number get early release

The largest number of criminals so far were released from jail early under emergency measures last month.

Prisons in England and Wales freed 2,612 offenders before the end of their sentences, a spokesman for the Ministry of Justice said.

The monthly total was 120 higher than the previous highest figure in August.

Ministers introduced the so-called "end of custody licence" scheme in June as the prison population in England and Wales reached crisis point.

Offenders can be set free 18 days before the end of their sentences to create space in the crowded jails.

From when the scheme began at the end of June to the end of October, 11,132 offenders have been freed early.

The total includes 2,039 violent offenders, four sexual offenders, 226 robbers and 1,052 burglars.

In October, officials recalled to prison 99 of the criminals who had been freed, including 34 for alleged re-offending.

Since the beginning of the scheme, officials have tried to recall 385 offenders in total, but of those 75 are still on the run.

The number of prisoners in jails in England and Wales is 81,459, down slightly on a record level of 81,547 set two weeks ago.