EDM 1304: Imprisonment of Lucy Connolly

That this House notes with concern the continued imprisonment of Lucy Connolly, a young mother, for a non-violent offence; recognises that the UK’s prison system is facing unprecedented overcrowding; further notes that the use of custodial sentences for non-violent offenders, particularly primary carers, undermines family stability, disproportionately affects children, and is often counterproductive in reducing reoffending; believes that prison should be reserved for those who pose a serious risk to the public; and calls on the Government to urgently review sentencing practices, expand the use of community-based alternatives, and ensure that limited prison space is prioritised for dangerous and violent offenders, not young mothers like Lucy Connolly.