Prisoners lose test case on wage levy at High Court

PRISONERS who took jobs outside prison have lost their High Court claim that a levy on their salaries which goes to victim support is too high.

A judge in London rejected “on all grounds” their challenge to the legality of the way Justice Secretary Ken Clarke is operating rules governing deductions from pay packets.

The test case action affects inmates working in the community as they prepare for their release and to “go straight”.

Welcoming the judgment, the “delighted” Justice Secretary said: “For too long offenders have not done enough to shoulder the financial burden of their crimes, leaving the taxpayer to foot the bill for the damage they have caused.”

Mr Clarke added: “The Prisoners’ Earnings Act is the start of Government getting the balance right - forcing prisoners to take responsibility for their crimes and helping victims to recover through the funding of these vital support services.

“In the first six months, nearly £400,000 has been raised through the Prisoners’ Earnings Act for Victim Support.

“I’m delighted that this ruling means that offenders will continue to contribute to make amends for their crimes.”