UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has ordered an immediate review of the possible early release of offenders linked to grooming gangs following growing concerns over the government's prison overcrowding strategy.

According to media reports, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch raised concerns that individuals convicted of child sexual abuse could be among prisoners released early under plans aimed at creating additional space in the country's overcrowded prisons.

In response, the Prime Minister's Office confirmed that officials have begun reviewing the relevant cases. Authorities will first identify prisoners who may qualify for early release before deciding whether they should remain eligible under the government's policy.

A government spokesperson said public safety would remain the top priority throughout the review process and stressed that serious offenders would be subject to careful assessment before any decision is made.

The review comes as the UK government moves forward with a broader plan to release around 5,000 inmates in an effort to reduce pressure on the prison system and address capacity challenges. Officials say the programme is intended to ease overcrowding while ensuring that risk assessments are carried out in line with existing legal procedures.

The issue has sparked political debate, with opposition figures urging the government to ensure that offenders convicted of serious crimes, particularly those involving child sexual exploitation, are not granted early release without thorough scrutiny.

The government has not yet announced when the review will be completed but said further decisions will be made after all eligible cases have been individually assessed.