Recent calls for enhanced protection for prison officers have emerged due to rising violence, with current equipment limited to batons and Pava spray.

Jenrick criticized the government's inaction, warning that without immediate measures, prison officers face serious risks, including potential kidnappings or attacks.

Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick has emphasized the urgent need for high-collar stab vests for frontline officers following a series of violent attacks.

He highlighted alarming incidents involving high-profile inmates, such as Hashem Abedi, who planned an ambush on prison staff using boiling oil.

A Ministry of Justice spokesperson reaffirmed the government's zero-tolerance stance towards violence and extremism in prisons, while criticizing the previous administration's handling of these issues.

The previous government is blamed for a significant reduction in prison capacity, which has contributed to a rise in assaults on staff.

In response to these threats, Jenrick has commissioned former prison governor Ian Acheson to conduct a rapid review of prison safety measures.

The Conservative Party has proposed arming certain prison officers with firearms to combat the escalating threats posed by Islamist gangs and violent inmates.

Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood has initiated a review of stab vest usage and plans to trial Tasers for officers managing serious incidents this summer.

Jenrick advocates for equipping specialist teams with Tasers, stun grenades, and lethal weapons in extreme situations due to the perceived national security emergency.

The government claims to be addressing prison violence by implementing improvements, including the construction of new cells since taking office.

Calls for more protective gear for frontline officers continue as the situation in prisons is described as a national security emergency.