UK Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood has outlined legislation that would allow foreign nationals given fixed-term custodial sentences to be deported immediately after they are sentenced and barred from re-entering the country. Prison governors would decide removals case-by-case, retaining the power to keep inmates in custody if they pose a security risk. The Ministry of Justice says foreign offenders account for roughly 10,400 inmates, or 12% of the prison population, with each prison place costing taxpayers about £54,000 a year. Officials estimate that as many as 3,000 prisoners could be expelled under the plans, easing pressure on overcrowded jails and cutting costs. Those serving life terms, including terrorists and murderers, would still complete their sentences in the UK before deportation is considered. The government intends to apply the new powers to existing prisoners as well as new convictions. The proposal must be approved by Parliament. Opposition parties have questioned whether some countries will accept their nationals, warning of potential diplomatic complications, while ministers argue the policy will deliver savings and strengthen public safety.