Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Sentencing White Paper: Public Protection

Tuesday 22 September 2020 · 5 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 5 Partly answered 0 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Last week, a White Paper titled "A Smarter Approach to Sentencing" was published, focusing on measures to keep dangerous criminals in prison longer.
  • The White Paper includes the use of GPS technology and electronic location monitoring to track burglars after release.
  • The Government is investing 25 million to enhance law enforcement against county lines gangs and revising drug offence guidelines.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Jonathan Gullis
Justice & Courts
Context

The question arises from a discussion about enhancing the safety of the public through better sentencing practices.

Question

I am concerned about protecting the public. What plans do you have to include proposals on improving the protection of the public in the forthcoming sentencing White Paper?

Answer from Robert Buckland

Last week, I published a White Paper entitled “A Smarter Approach to Sentencing”, which sets out my plans to crack down on crime and keep dangerous criminals in prison for longer. The measures include abolishing automatic halfway release for certain serious sexual and violent offenders and introducing new powers to prevent automatic release if a prisoner poses a danger.

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Q2 Christian Wakeford Lab Bury South
Crime & Law Enforcement Science & Technology
Context

The MP raises the issue of advancing technological tools for monitoring offenders and preventing crimes.

Question

I wish you a happy birthday. The use of technology to prevent crime is developing rapidly, from drones to biometrics. How will the Government work with expert organisations to ensure we use the best technology to tackle crime?

Answer from Robert Buckland

The White Paper includes measures such as using GPS technology and electronic location monitoring to track burglars following their release from custody. This allows probation to monitor offenders' whereabouts and share data with police.

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Q3 Simon Fell
Justice & Courts
Context

The MP highlights the impact of the pandemic on court proceedings and raises concerns about remand delays.

Question

I welcome plans in the White Paper to extend prison sentences for serious crimes. However, due to covid-19, those on remand face long delays. What plans do you have to ensure justice sooner?

Answer from Robert Buckland

We are reaching a turning point in magistrates courts with disposals exceeding receipts. In the Crown court, we scale up jury trials, with more than 100 being heard weekly. By October, 250 courtrooms will be ready for trials.

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Q4 Jonathan Gullis
Crime & Law Enforcement Justice & Courts
Context

The MP expresses concern about the impact of county lines gangs on his community and seeks action in the White Paper.

Question

In Stoke-on-Trent North, we face severe issues with county lines gangs exploiting vulnerable people. What steps are you taking to tackle these offences?

Answer from Robert Buckland

The Government is investing £25 million to boost law enforcement efforts against county lines gangs. The Sentencing Council is revising guidelines for drug offences, ensuring full reflection of child exploitation.

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Q5 David Lammy Lab Tottenham
Justice & Courts NHS Employment
Context

The MP highlights the poor performance of prisons in rehabilitating offenders and asks for a plan to address this issue.

Question

Sentencing reform is necessary, but not sufficient. Most criminals will be released from prison eventually, and if they are not rehabilitated, they may reoffend. Does the Government plan to publish a cross-departmental plan to reduce reoffending?

Answer from Robert Buckland

The Government is working across Departments, including DWP, Education and Health, through the Prime Minister's Cabinet Committee. Ambitious targets aim to improve offender employment and resettlement.

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