Source · Select Committees · Justice Committee
Recommendation 30
30
Acknowledged
Paragraph: 130
Genuine and sustained gaps exist between sentencing policy and public opinion.
Conclusion
It is also important that Government and Parliament understand where there may be genuine and sustained gaps between sentencing policy and public opinion. Whilst more difficult to measure and more subjective, whether an offender is suitably punished is an important factor when considering the effectiveness of sentencing policy. Those gaps can be used to inform the development of sentencing policy. However, it is important to stress that sentencing in individual cases is a matter for the judiciary. Judges make their decisions based on the statutory framework set by Parliament, and the structure dictated by sentencing guidelines.
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the pivotal role of public opinion in shaping sentencing policy and states it is continually exploring ways to enhance current engagement processes and increase public awareness of avenues for discussion.
Paragraph Reference:
130
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.