Wes Streeting has issued an apology after a leaked audio clip caught him playfully referring to a Cabinet colleague as “the enemy” in connection to an early prisoner release program. In the clip, Streeting is heard teasing Justice Secretary Alex Norris about his alleged desire to release all prisoners. Streeting clarified that his comment was not meant to be malicious, although it was highlighted by Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch.

The incident occurred as Norris approached Streeting and Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood. Streeting, identified as the Defence Secretary, was recorded on video by The Metro stating, “You know he’s the enemy now.” Mahmood responded, “No he’s not,” to which Streeting added, “He wants to let them all out.”

Streeting’s comment was related to a past joke but he acknowledged the sensitive nature of the topic and expressed regret for any unintended offense caused by his lighthearted banter. Similarly, Mahmood clarified that the exchange was not ill-intentioned, emphasizing the challenges faced by the justice system due to previous government actions.

In response to the incident, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Today Programme, mentioned Streeting’s apology and emphasized the seriousness with which all parties involved approach public safety and prison system issues. Alexander recalled the critical decisions made in 2024 to ensure the functionality of the criminal justice system amid limited prison space availability.

Legislative amendments now allow for early release of prisoners serving determinate sentences, with violent or sexual offenders being eligible for release halfway through their term. All released individuals are closely monitored, including through electronic tagging. Following the clip’s release, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch criticized the Labour cabinet’s approach to early prisoner release, contrasting it with the Conservative party’s commitment to supporting victims and opposing the policy.