Unduly Lenient Sentence Scheme 2024-09-12
2024-09-12
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The question arises from the concern that some sentences, particularly those related to peaceful protest and climate action, may be unduly severe. The UN special rapporteur has raised concerns about these sentences.
If she will make an assessment of the potential merits of extending the unduly lenient sentence scheme to include unduly severe sentences. Since 4 July, more than 40 people have been jailed for peaceful acts of conscience; some protested climate breakdown and others took measures to stop violations in Gaza. The UN special rapporteur states that these sentences violate international law and are not acceptable in a democracy.
Decisions to prosecute, convict and sentence are made independently by the Crown Prosecution Service, juries, and judges. If someone believes their sentence is unduly excessive, they can appeal to the Court of Appeal.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Did not address the specific ask for guidance to ensure sentencing aligns with democratic principles and international law.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The question stems from the case of Oliver Campbell, whose conviction for murder was quashed by the Court of Appeal after 33 years. The Criminal Cases Review Commission was involved in this case.
Thank you, Mr Speaker. The Government have pledged to undertake a review of sentencing generally. I wonder whether I can tempt the Solicitor General to support a wider review of aspects of the criminal justice system that do not seem to be working, in particular the role of the Criminal Cases Review Commission and the CPS in dealing with potential miscarriages of justice.
First, I welcome my hon. Friend and congratulate him on his election as Chair of the Justice Committee. He is right that we will be undertaking a review of sentencing. On miscarriages of justice, we will want to work with him to look into that further.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Did not commit to specific actions or timelines for reviewing aspects of the criminal justice system.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
▸
Context
Oliver Campbell's murder conviction was quashed after 33 years. The case involved the Criminal Cases Review Commission and CPS.
Thank you, Mr Speaker. The Government have pledged to undertake a review of sentencing generally. I wonder whether I can tempt the Solicitor General to support a wider review of aspects of the criminal justice system that do not seem to be working, in particular the role of the Criminal Cases Review Commission and the CPS in dealing with potential miscarriages of justice.
First, I welcome my hon. Friend and congratulate him on his election as Chair of the Justice Committee. He is right that we will be undertaking a review of sentencing. On miscarriages of justice, we will want to work with him to look into that further.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Did not commit to specific actions or timelines for reviewing aspects of the criminal justice system.
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The question addresses the current unduly lenient sentence scheme, suggesting it should be extended to monitor newly created offences proactively.
May I first warmly welcome the Solicitor General to her place, and the Attorney General to his place in the other place. While I am at it, I should of course also welcome the hon. Member for Hammersmith and Chiswick as the new Chair of the Justice Committee. May I ask the Solicitor General to consider the merits of monitoring sentencing proactively, particularly for newly created offences?
I thank the right hon. and learned Member for his question. Newly created offences such as those from the Online Safety Act 2023 do not currently fall within the scope of the unduly lenient sentencing scheme, but we always look for opportunities to reform.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Did not commit to specific actions or timelines for proactive monitoring of newly created offences.
Response accuracy