A decision by the European Court of Human rights paves the way for hundreds of murderers to have their sentences reviewed without ministerial intervention.

The judges ruled that the home secretary violated a murderer's human rights when, against the advice of the Parole Board, he extended his imprisonment after his sentencing "tariff" had expired.

Strasbourg's ruling has raised concerns that the "whole life tariff" on Moors murderer Myra Hindley could face a legal challenge.

David Blunkett said the court's decision was regrettable.

"I am disappointed with this judgement which has the effect of removing the home secretary's statutory power to decide the release of adult murderers whose tariff has expired," he said.