The move follows a request by the Secretary of State for Justice, Robert Buckland. Pitchfork, 61, was jailed for life in 1988 after strangling Lynda Mann and Dawn Ashworth, both aged 15, in Leicestershire in 1983 and 1986. Following a hearing in March, the Parole Board said it was satisfied he was “suitable for release”. Previous requests in 2016 and 2018 had been denied. His release is subject to strict conditions.

       Mr Buckland has triggered a “reconsideration mechanism” which allows people to challenge the board’s decision within 21 days if they believe it to be “procedurally unfair” or “irrational”.

       It is understood Mr Buckland maintains the latter, based on the evidence of risk that was considered, and that other parole judges would not come to the same conclusion.

       Pitchfork was the first man convicted of murder on the basis of DNA evidence. He admitted two murders, two rapes, two indecent assaults and conspiracy to pervert the course of justice.

       The case is expected to be assigned to a senior judge for consideration, with families of victims being invited to give their views.

       The process should take around three weeks.