In his first interview in the role, Lord James Timpson said something was clearly wrong with the system when 80% of crimes were committed by former offenders.
He said people were leaving jail addicted to drugs, with no qualifications and no hope.
Lord Timpson said: "I think it's failing victims because it's our job to keep the public safe. We want prisons to produce better citizens, not better criminals.
"We need to make sure that when they're released, they're no longer dangerous and the public is safe." His business, the key cutting firm Timpson, is known for employing ex-offenders, who make up more than a tenth of its workforce.
FOCUS
The appointment of a reform campaigner as Prisons Minister is seen as a shift from the Tory focus on prison expansion.
The new Labour government had to release thousands of prisoners early when the number of available places fell below 100 this summer. It has committed to creating 14,000 new prison places but also wants to reduce re-offending.
Lord Timpson spoke to the Mirror in South East London at the HQ of The Clink, which teaches prisoners and ex-offenders culinary skills.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
YELLER FEVER
Vocal discord takes grip at Villa but nai says: Keep calm and carry on
ALEXANDER THE GREATEST
Howe's push to make Isak the best striker on the planet
TRY AND MIGHTY
Borthwick's boys run riot to end November pain... but jury is still out as Six Nations will stretch Red Rose to limit
STINGERS & THUMBS FOR COX ACHLE
Wicketkeeper Jordan out of NZ series after injury in nets
Corrupt cops 'AI Fayed abuse cover-up' próbe
Force's 'Line of Duty' unit investigating claims
Adele has left the building
Tears & Elvis tribute as Vegas residency ends
STARMER: WE'LL GET A GRIP ON BENEFITS
But campaigners condemn 'threats
Young head out for an afternoon on the tiles
Gen Z are on way home by 8pm
Sir Alf's '66 tricks
Dossier including scouting reports found in a suitcase
96% of dentists will not take new adults on the NHS
Mirror probe lays bare desperate plight of patients