The Scottish Government announced that a number of short-term prisoners who are nearing the end of their custody term will be released early as a response to the coronavirus outbreak. Regulations are to be laid before Parliament in order that the releases can begin from 30 April. The release scheme will only apply to prisoners who were sentenced to 18 months or less in prison and who on 30 April will have 90 days or fewer to serve. These guidelines will be subject to public protection exclusions, which will extend to inmates with convictions for domestic abuse, terrorism or sexual offences, amongst others. It is expected that between 300 and 450 prisoners will be considered for early release under the parameters of the scheme. The Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf's full Parliamentary statement on the matter can be accessed here.  

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