§ Mr. CohenTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps are being taken to ensure uniformity of sentences for similar offences in different areas; and if he will make a statement. [43610]
§ Mr. MichaelProvisions in the Crime and Disorder Bill[Lords] place a statutory duty on the Court of Appeal to consider producing sentencing guidelines. The Bill also establishes a new sentencing advisory panel which will offer advice to the Court of Appeal. Taken together, we are confident that these measures will help to ensure greater consistency in sentencing.