Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Gareth Johnson and Andrew Bingham

Tuesday 26th October 2010 Commons Chamber

[Gareth Johnson (Dartford) (Con)]

4. What representations he has received on his recent report on unduly lenient sentences; and if he will make a statement.

[Andrew Bingham (High Peak) (Con)]

5. What representations he has received on his recent report on unduly lenient sentences; and if he will make a statement.

[The Solicitor-General]

In July this year, my right hon. and learned Friend the Attorney-General and I released information on unduly lenient sentences in cases for 2009, the latest year for which figures are available. The figures show that of 311 sentences considered by the Law Officers, 108 were referred and heard by the Court of Appeal, of which 71 sentences were increased by the Court. The decision whether to refer cases often generates a good deal of media or public interest, but no representations were received by the Attorney-General’s office as a direct consequence of the publication of that information.