House of Commons · General Debate
19 July 2023 · 2 other contributors
Opened by Maria Miller Con Basingstoke
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Maria Miller raised concerns about offences against the person act 1861 (sentencing guidelines) in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
Key points
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
The Bill aims to require the Sentencing Council to issue sentencing guidelines in respect of sections 58 and 59 of the Offences against the Person Act 1861, ensuring consistency in how the law is applied today. Despite not changing any regulations on abortion set out in the Abortion Act 1967, the Bill seeks to address inconsistencies in sentencing by providing judges with guidance that reflects modern-day Britain.
The current law underpinning abortion is outdated and causes problems for courts. Sentencing guidance helps ensure consistency, especially given the lack of case law on sentencing. The Bill enjoys support across the House and aims to provide better certainty for women while waiting for fuller reform.
I start by recognising and respecting the work of the right hon. Lady... My final concern is that looking at sentencing directly contradicts the call for decriminalisation, and the case for equalising the human rights of women in the United Kingdom.