An MP has raised concerns in Parliament about the potential release of serial killer Patrick Mackay.

Mackay, who used to live in Dartford and Gravesend areas, was jailed in 1975 after confessing to brutally murdering 11 people, and a parole hearing is set to consider his release in August.

Addressing the Justice Secretary in the House of Commons yesterday, Dartford MP Gareth Johnson said: “Patrick Mackay, formerly of my constituency, is one of Britain's least known but most dangerous serial killers.

“In 1975, he admitted to three counts of manslaughter, but he is strongly suspected of carrying out a further 10 killings, including that of a four-year-old boy.

“Mackay is now eligible for parole and may well have already been moved to an open prison.

"Does the Secretary of State share my deep concern about the potential release of this man, still only in his 60s, and will he enable me to make the fullest possible representations to the parole board?”

In response, Justice Secretary David Gauke said: “I pay tribute to my honourable friend who has taken up this issue tirelessly.

Gareth Johnson demands answers over Patrick Mackay's potential release

“As he knows, the parole board will release a life sentence prisoner only when, in its view, it is no longer necessary on the grounds of public protection for a prisoner to remain in custody.

“In making its determination, the board will consider reports from those who manage the prisoner and have assessed the risk of harm he presents.

“The board will also consider all relevant evidence of the prisoner’s risk of harm, and if my honourable friend has such evidence I am sure it will be listened to closely.

"We will ensure that it is fully considered for inclusion in the dossier of reports given to the parole board.”

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