Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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The question arises from the need for reform in sentencing policies to address public concerns about crime and punishment.
What steps is the Department taking to reform sentencing?
On 9 March we introduced the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill which will deliver on our manifesto commitments to make punishments tougher for serious offenders and introduce more effective community sentences. Work is also under way on non-legislative reforms set out in my White Paper last year.
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Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
The question is prompted by a need to ensure the public's trust in the justice system, particularly regarding judges' explanations of sentence aims.
Does my right hon. Friend agree that judges explaining their sentences clearly can increase public confidence? Also, does he support increasing sentencers' confidence through pre-sentence reports?
By law the court must explain sentence effects and reasons clearly. The pre-sentence report pilot aims to increase sentencers' confidence that their determinations will improve offender outcomes and reduce reoffending.
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Q3
Direct Answer
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Context
Sedgley has experienced gang-related antisocial behaviour, prompting concerns about how to handle such incidents.
Will the government refrain from describing this type of activity as low-level antisocial behaviour? Will they consider prosecuting and sentencing meaningfully and engage with colleagues across Departments for young people's schemes?
We should label the behaviour as criminality. We have flexible community orders for children involving parents and carers. Alternatives include restorative action and early interventions to prevent justice system involvement.
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Q4
Partial Answer
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The Government's manifesto promises to do right by victims, but the opposition feels it has fallen short in addressing sexual crimes.
Will the Secretary of State work cross-party to implement Labour's Bill on ending violence against women and girls?
We have passed landmark domestic abuse legislation, work tirelessly in the fight against violence against women and girls. The Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill presents a chance for Labour to join us but they voted it down.
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Commitment to working with Labour on their Bill
Voting Record Of The Opposition
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Q5
Partial Answer
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A distressing case involving the online ridicule of a rape victim highlights the need for stronger legislation against such acts.
Will he implement Labour's proposals for tougher sentences for those who name and shame victims of sexual offences?
We are making preparations to see what can be done to improve and strengthen the law in this area. We will do whatever it takes to help stamp out the criminal act of naming victims.
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Assessment & feedback
Commitment to implementing Labour's proposals specifically
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