What we all knew since he became PM- Starmer has actually gone an done it.
[spoiler alert] He hasn't.
The sentencing council which is
entirely independent from the Government has recommended that a pre-sentence report be obtained if the offender is:
- at risk of first custodial sentence and/or at risk of a custodial sentence of 2 years or less (after taking into account any reduction for guilty plea)
- a young adult (typically 18-25 years; see further information below at section 3)
- female (see further information below at section 3)
- from an ethnic minority, cultural minority, and/or faith minority community
- pregnant or post-natal
- sole or primary carer for dependent relatives
PSRs are also necessary in
all cases that would benefit from an assessment of one or more of the following: the offender’s dangerousness and risk of harm, the nature and causes of the offender’s behaviour, the offender’s personal circumstances and any factors that may be helpful to the court in considering the offender’s suitability for different sentences or requirements.
A PSR gives the court comprehensive information about the offender so that the court can impose a sentence which is appropriate and effective.
For example a PSR is recommended for female offenders as female offending is commonly linked to mental health issues, substance misuse, being a victim of domestic abuse or financial / homelessness issues. If imprisoned women are more likely to be a long way from their support network and when released are more likely to have no accommodation and to be unemployed. Care of children and elderly relatives can also be an issue when a woman is locked up.
A PSR doesn't change the sentence or wave a magic "you are not going to prison" wand. It gives the Judge more information so that they can ensure that the most appropriate sentence is given to punish, rehabilitate and avoid reoffending. Some would argue that a PSR should be done in all cases.
Oh - and when listening to Robert Jenrick bear in mind that his only connection with the law was as a solicitor for 6 years working in corporate law. He has no knowledge of criminal law other than what was covered during his law degree. He wasn't good enough to be a Barrister.
