UK releases 2,000 prisoners early to ease overcrowding; probation strike looms

England and Wales begin second wave of early prisoner releases, freeing about 2,000 offenders including domestic abusers and violent criminals, with 3,000 more planned over the next year. The move follows government efforts to address prison overcrowding, with the total reduced from 6,000 after intervention by Andy Burnham. Probation union moves towards strike, adding strain to the justice system.