Sentences of Imprisonment for Public Protection 2023-03-30
2023-03-30
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP inquires about discussions regarding the effectiveness of ongoing IPP sentences.
What discussions has she had with the Secretary of State for Justice on the effectiveness of ongoing sentences of imprisonment for public protection?
The Attorney General and I meet the Secretary of State for Justice regularly and discuss numerous issues. Where they touch on legal issues and advice, the hon. Lady will know, and will have heard the Attorney General clearly set out, that the Law Officers' convention applies.
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Assessment & feedback
The effectiveness of ongoing IPP sentences was not directly addressed.
Law Officers' Convention
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
A constituent's son is serving an IPP sentence since before the abolition in 2012, causing uncertainty and mental health concerns.
Imprisonment for public protection sentences were abolished in 2012 but not retrospectively. A constituent whose son serves such a sentence has expressed concern about his mental health deteriorating. Can the Minister commit to working to reach a consensus on how best to address these long-standing IPP cases?
The hon. Lady raises a very serious point, and I am grateful to her. IPP sentences were first introduced in 2003, and she is right that they were abolished in 2012 but not retrospectively. Further reforms were introduced last year, but those in prison on IPP sentences have not been assessed as safe for release. However, I will put her in touch with the Prisons Minister to discuss this further.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific commitment or concrete action towards addressing long-standing IPP cases was lacking.
Further Reforms Were Introduced Last Year
Response accuracy