Member

We have not been able to include solicitation in this amendment. That is not because we do not want to do it but because we need to make sure the offence is robust, taking into account the way in which similar terms are used elsewhere, and ensuring we do not risk creating confusion about which offence to prosecute or call into question the operation of other related areas of law. We know that an act of solicitation contributes to the commission of any eventual creation offence and, as such, we view it as a core part of the package to ensure a more complete and effective approach to justice. We remain committed to working with the noble Baroness on this issue, and hope that the assurance given today is enough to prevent her from pushing Amendment 3 to a vote.