FYI (for those not familiar with the way this works in the UK): After the minimum term of a 'life' sentence is served, a parole board gives a recommendation to the Home Secretary who then decides whether or not the prisoner should be released. The final decision rests with the Home Secretary.

News: http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/uk/...00/2012232.stm

Just wondering what people think of this. A lot of fuss is being made in the media about the prospect of some more notorious criminals (currently serving life sentences) being released since they are past their minimum sentence.

I am struggling to see why a politician is in a better position to make a decision about this than a parole board.