The number of foreign nationals in the United Kingdom flagged for deportation but remaining free in the community has reached a record high, according to recent government data. Between April and June 2026, 21,294 foreign offenders were subject to removal orders yet continued to live in Britain, marking a 12 percent increase compared to the same period last year and a 38 percent rise from three years ago.

The rising figures come amid an early release scheme introduced by the Labour government in September 2024 aimed at alleviating prison overcrowding. Under this policy, tens of thousands of offenders have been released before completing their sentences, with an additional 5,000 prisoners scheduled for early release starting October 2026. Experts and officials suggest this policy has contributed to the increase in foreign offenders free in the community, sparking concerns about public safety.

The number of foreign national offenders (FNOs) deported remains substantially lower than those released, with 5,858 removals recorded for the year ending March 2026. The law mandates deportation of FNOs sentenced to 12 months or longer unless they successfully appeal on human rights grounds or other factors. Those given shorter sentences may also be subject to deportation if deemed beneficial to the UK.

The issue has led to renewed debate over the government’s justice policies. Critics argue that early release poses a risk to public security. Reform UK’s home affairs spokesman, Zia Yusuf, characterized the situation as placing the British public in "serious" danger, while drawing attention to concerns over migrants dispersed into residential communities without sufficient background checks. Yusuf called for stronger measures to stop illegal Channel crossings and to detain and deport all individuals residing unlawfully in the country.

Shadow justice secretary Nick Timothy echoed calls for tougher action, asserting that Labour’s Sentencing Act, which facilitates early release, has had significant negative consequences. Timothy advocated for leaving the European Convention on Human Rights to allow for more straightforward deportation of foreign offenders. Meanwhile, the government has introduced changes exempting certain offenders, such as those convicted of “unlawful act” manslaughter, from early release. This includes individuals involved in high-profile cases such as the killing of PC Andrew Harper.

Controversy persists over the release of other categories of offenders, including domestic abusers, who may still qualify for early release under current rules despite concerns from campaigners. The Prime Minister has ordered a review of the early release scheme, with a report expected from Justice Secretary Alex Norris in the coming weeks. A government spokesperson said efforts are ongoing to identify options that would keep high-risk offenders in custody for longer.

Separately, official figures show a 24 percent rise in migrants granted indefinite leave to remain in the UK during the year to June 2026, reaching nearly 200,000—the highest level since 2010. This surge may be linked to upcoming immigration reforms increasing the residency requirement for settlement from five to ten years, prompting applicants to submit claims before new rules take effect. More than half of new asylum seekers entered via irregular routes, with small boats accounting for 40 percent of claims during the period.

The data has renewed discussions on the balance between managing immigration, public safety, and justice system pressures amid evolving government policies.