Papal prisoner amnesty idea rejected over crime blitz fears

AN amnesty for prisoners to mark the visit of Pope John Paul II was put back over fears of a burglary blitz on the country’s empty homes, newly released State Papers reveal today.

Documents from theNational Archives also show the historic 1979 trip was nearly scuppered over a lack of preparations by theGovernment.

Dozens of jail inmates were freed early as part of the three-day celebrations 30 years ago while, behind the scenes, Cabinet ministers fretted about its potential for a crime spree.