Terror lunacy

THE government last night admitted hundreds of terrorist inmates will have their prison sentences slashed by HALF.

New laws were introduced which allowed criminals with set-length sentences- except life to be automatically released midway through the term.

But ministers failed to make any exception for terrorist-related crimes. It means hundreds of dangerous criminals jailed under terror laws will be freed early.

Tough

Their crimes range from helping bombers, fundraising for terrorist crimes and possessing extremist material. Fardosa Abdullahi, (above) -the 20-year-old jailed on Friday for three years for helping her 21/7 London bomber fiancee flee in a burka-could be freed next year.

Shadow Home Secretary Domimic Grieve has demanded the law be changed.

He said: "The government's claim to be tough on terror is completely undermined when they are happy to release someone that they have actually managed to bring to justice halfway through their sentence. Conservatives would end automatic early release and replace it with honesty sentencing."

Last night the Ministry of Justice admitted it did not have a clue how many terrorists would be set free early. But a statement promised: "A bulletin to cover information on arrests, charges and convictions will be published."

Justice Secretary Jack Straw said: "I am unaware of any proposals which have been put before either House by any member for there to be different arrangements relating to the release of those convicted of terrorist offences."