M
Member
Speaking in the House of Lords on 26 November 2025
Debate
Sentencing BillContribution
First, the provision does not allow the court to consider the risk to the wider public. It is entirely possible for an offender to present a clear danger to communities generally, even if no single victim can be identified. Convicted sex offenders are a clear example of this. Judges must be able to take that broader threat into account. These amendments ensure that risk to the public is recognised as a valid basis for imposing custody rather than suspension.
About Hansard
Hansard is the official verbatim record of proceedings in the UK Parliament. Every word spoken in the Commons and Lords is recorded and published — this page is a single contribution from that record.
Partner sites