“A Smarter Approach to Sentencing” White Paper
2021-03-16
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
The MP inquired about the progress made by the Department of Justice on proposals outlined in its September 2020 White Paper.
What progress has his Department made on the proposals in its September 2020 White Paper, “A Smarter Approach to Sentencing”?
Last week, we introduced the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill. This landmark piece of legislation will deliver on commitments made to make punishments tougher for serious offenders and those who commit crimes against women and girls, as well as introduce more effective community sentences. Non-legislative reforms in the White Paper aim to tackle underlying causes of criminal behaviour and improve rehabilitation.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
The MP raised the potential for technology to improve public safety, punish criminals more effectively, and reduce reoffending within the context of the White Paper's proposals.
How will measures in the White Paper enable the courts, prisons and probation services to exploit new technology?
We are expanding electronic monitoring for community supervision. Courts in England will soon impose alcohol abstinence and monitoring requirements, GPS tracking for offenders released from custody who have committed burglary or theft offences is being developed, and legislation to extend curfew lengths from 12 months to two years will be laid down.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP questioned the Government's strategy regarding short prison sentences for women, noting that these sentences often fail to address the root causes of criminal behavior.
Why is he still insisting on spending another £150 million on ineffective prison places when this money could be used to break the cycle of abuse and reoffending?
I can reassure her that prison places being built will improve and enhance the existing female estate. The new facilities will allow women offenders to do purposeful activities in a secure environment, supporting each other, and benefiting from residential centres such as the one in Wales.
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Assessment & feedback
The MP's concern about the ineffectiveness of short prison sentences for women was not directly addressed with concrete evidence or alternatives.
Supporting The Female Offender Strategy
Improving And Enhancing The Custodial Experience
Response accuracy