PM must recall Parliament to stop the early release of PC Andrew Harper’s killers, say Lib Dems

EMBARGO: Immediate Release

The Liberal Democrats have said that Parliament should be recalled for 24 hours over the early release of PC Andrew Harper's killers. The party wants to see emergency legislation to stop those who are responsible for killing emergency service workers from being eligible for the early release scheme.

Commenting, Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader Daisy Cooper MP said:

“It has absolutely shocked the nation that in a few months time, PC Andrew Harper's killers may be released early from prison. It’s deeply unfair to victims’ families for the Government to continue to flip-flop and leave them in limbo.

“Those guilty of killing our brave emergency service workers should under no circumstances be allowed to walk free early. Liberal Democrats have proposed emergency legislation to ensure that these cop killers are exempt from early release.

“If Andy Burnham is serious about engaging with other parties to stop this, he should simply recall Parliament for 24 hours to get this sorted. The family of PC Harper, and other emergency workers who have been killed in the line of service, deserve certainty that those responsible will serve their time.”

Local MP for the family of PC Andrew Harper (Henley and Thame), Freddie van Mierlo MP said:

​​“The Government now needs to provide certainty for Andrew Harper’s family, and a recall of Parliament can provide that. The family needs to be at the absolute centre of everyone’s approach. They have borne unimaginable suffering with incredible grace, and the prospect of PC Harper’s killers being released is adding to their pain. That’s why Burnham needs to end the speculation right away.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

BBC breakfast clip here