Population Problems.

The article examines the significant decline in the prison population of England and Wales during the early 20th century, despite rising crime rates. Key reforms initiated by the Liberal government, particularly under Home Secretary Herbert Gladstone, included the establishment of a probation service, the introduction of Borstal institutions for young offenders, and legislative changes allowing fines to be paid in installments. These measures contributed to a dramatic reduction in imprisonment rates, which remained low even as crime increased during the 1920s and 1930s. The article also highlights the influence of social attitudes and public criticism of prisons, particularly from middle-class suffragettes and conscientious objectors, in shaping penal policy during this period. [Extracted from the article]