Prisoners serving a sentence of indeterminate duration (until further order) cannot be released on parole but can be released on licence ordered by the Supreme Court, on application of either the Crown or the prisoner [Criminal Law (Sentencing) Act 1988 s.24].

If a person breaches the conditions of a licence the Crown may apply to the Supreme Court that the person be returned to custody but may be re-released if the breach is not serious and the court thinks it appropriate. A person who is not re-released must apply for a fresh licence but can only apply once every six months [Criminal Law (Sentencing) Act 1988 s.24(4)].