§ Mr. SpellerTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will introduce legislation to ensure a specific minimum sentence for those convicted of rape; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John PattenOur criminal justice system does not provide for minimum sentences, except for the offence of murder. It is for the courts to consider the circumstances of each case and decide on a sentence which reflects the gravity of the individual offence, within the maximum penalties determined by Parliament. Following guidance given by the Court of Appeal, the proportion of convicted rapists receiving sentences of five years' imprisonment or longer increased from 42 per cent. in 1985 to 79 per cent. in 1987.