SENTENCING FOR GROSS INDECENCY IN NORTHERN IRELAND

Motion Text

That this House notes the fact that the maximum sentence for gross indecency with a child is two years in Northern Ireland whilst it is 10 years in England and Wales; notes the comments of the Lord Chief Justice of Northern Ireland, Sir Robert Carswell, that the maximum sentence should be amended in Northern Ireland; and calls for legislation to be introduced to bring the sentencing power for judges in Northern Ireland in this area into line with England and Wales.