Source · Select Committees · Justice Committee
Recommendation 23
23
Acknowledged
Paragraph: 108
Address public perceptions of sentencing severity and understand public expectations to maintain confidence.
Conclusion
In relation to the current challenge to public confidence based on the persistence of the view among the public that the system is not severe enough, it is important to recognise that this represents a significant long-term public policy challenge that needs to be addressed. Our own polling indicates that the majority of the public support further increases to the severity of sentences for the gravest criminal offences. We should not assume that these views are based on mistaken assumptions or lack of knowledge of current sentencing practice. It is vital that policymakers adopt a consistent and principled response to maintaining public confidence in response to the challenge of the public’s position on sentencing severity. This should be informed by an attempt to understand what the public’s expectations are.
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the pivotal role of public opinion in sentencing policy and the need for careful consideration, stating it actively engages in policy discussions and is continually exploring ways to enhance current processes and public awareness.
Paragraph Reference:
108
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
3. Public opinion absolutely plays a pivotal role in shaping sentencing policy, and we recognise that this demands careful consideration and there are several ways that the Government actively engages on sentencing policy to ensure an inclusive, as well as robust policy making process (highlighted in this response). 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.