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Lord Elliott of Ballinamallard (UUP)

Speaking in the House of Lords on 20 May 2026

Debate

Youth Justice

Contribution

My Lords, I welcome the announcement in the Statement that the number of young people being detained in custody has reduced significantly. There is something being done reasonably well, so I would be reluctant to change it dramatically. I would like an assurance that there is no predetermined position to change the minimum age of criminal responsibility from 10. There may be some options for reasonable movements away if exceptions can be made, but I would not want to see it done automatically without the proper consultation, because we need to find a way to ensure that there are fewer young people in custody but at the same time that they abide by the law.

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