The row over the John Worboys’ parole fiasco has intensified after officials admitted 63 violent criminals - including murderers and rapists - were similarly cleared for release last year from high-security jails straight on to Britain's streets.
Ministers were last night seeking assurances that the freed prisoners had been subject to proper scrutiny by the Parole Board.
David Gauke, the Justice Secretary, has demanded a list of all Category A prisoners released directly into the community - rather than spending time in an open jail first.
The Parole Board had still to hand over the list on Thursday evening but hit back, claiming the public is often safer if offenders are placed in the community...