Prime Minister Andy Burnham has tightened rules governing the early release of prisoners, excluding people convicted of manslaughter and several other serious offences from the upcoming scheme.

The government said offenders convicted of unlawful killing, historic child sexual offences and causing death by dangerous or drink-driving will not qualify for the revised early-release arrangements. The move follows growing political and public concern over prisoner releases and pressure on the overcrowded prison system.

The policy represents an early test of Burnham's pledge to take a tougher approach to crime while dealing with severe pressure on prison capacity. Men's prisons are operating at around 98% occupancy, creating difficult choices for ministers over sentencing and rehabilitation.

The government has also announced additional post-release restrictions intended to strengthen protections for victims and the public.

Critics are questioning whether excluding more offenders from early release could further increase pressure on already crowded prisons.

Burnham's challenge is to balance public safety with the urgent need to manage Britain's prison capacity without creating another crisis inside the justice system.