Law Reform: Murder

Lord Hamilton of Epsom Excerpts

Monday 12th July 2010 Lords Chamber

[Lord McNally]

My Lords, the short answer is yes. Such strong recommendations from a Select Committee carry weight, but we must be careful to ensure that in addressing the issue of the mandatory sentence for murder, we do not slip into other issues which have caused problems, such as mercy killing and euthanasia, which I think need to be considered separately as a matter of law.

[Lord Hamilton of Epsom]

My Lords, in the light of the coalition's new enthusiasm for referenda and its desire to consult the people about changes in the law, will the Government be holding a referendum on the restoration of the death penalty?

[Lord McNally]

No sir.