Source · Select Committees · Justice Committee
Recommendation 14
14
Acknowledged
Paragraph: 80
Public opinion research on sentencing requires rigorous, specific methodology to avoid flaws.
Conclusion
Research on the public’s views on sentencing can play a valuable role in the policy process. However, it must be recognised that ascertaining and measuring public opinion is very difficult to do. Unless research is well-designed and methodologically rigorous then the results are almost certain to be flawed. Any general assessments of the public’s view of sentencing policy across all offences should be balanced against analysis and engagement of public opinion and understanding which, where possible, focuses on specific offences or offence types.
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the pivotal role of public opinion in sentencing policy and the need for careful consideration, stating it is continually exploring ways to enhance existing engagement processes and increase public awareness.
Paragraph Reference:
80
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
69. Public opinion absolutely plays a pivotal role in shaping sentencing policy, and we recognise that this demands careful consideration. As mentioned in the above recommendation (Paragraph 81), there are several ways that we engage on sentencing policy to ensure an inclusive, as well as robust policy making process. We are continually exploring ways to enhance current processes including ways to increasing public awareness of the existing avenues for engagement in sentencing policy discussions.