A report from the Scottish Prison Service (SPS) shows that 57 of the 477 people released in the summer as part of the early release scheme were sent back.

Non-sexual crimes accounted for 20 cases; 17 returned for crimes of dishonesty and eight for crimes against society and anti-social offences.

A spokeswoman for the Scottish government said: “Whilst no level of re-offending is acceptable and we do not want any more victims of crime, the return to custody rate for those released under the scheme was substantially lower than the average re-conviction rate of those serving four years or less.

“The early release scheme for some short-term prisoners was necessary so prisons could continue to function safely and effectively, following a sharp and unexpected rise in the prison population.

“Public safety was paramount, with only those serving less than four years considered, with the majority eligible for release having 90 days or less left to serve.

“There were specific safeguards built into the process, including exclusions for those serving for domestic abuse and sexual offences, and a governor power of veto for those prisoners deemed an immediate risk to a specific individual or group.”

A spokesman for the SPS said: “Working with the Scottish government, and our partners, we delivered an emergency early release (EER) programme, which prioritised the safety and wellbeing of those in our care, victims, and the communities we serve.

“We have been open and transparent throughout, publishing the number of individuals released at each stage, followed by a series of breakdowns. The latest publication on returns to custody continues this approach.

“While EER provided much-needed respite to our establishments, staff, and those in our care, it was always recognised that this was a temporary measure.

“In recent months, our population has risen sharply once more, and remains extremely complex.

“This continues to have a significant impact on our staff and the time available to them to do the important work in supporting people, building relationships, turning lives around, reducing the risk of re-offending, and creating a safer Scotland for all.”