HC Deb 07 July 1994 vol 246 cc298-9W
29. Mr. Jonathan Evans

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what progress he has made in extending the Attorney-General's right to appeal against lenient sentences.

Mr. Maclean

On 1 March the Attorney-General's power to refer unduly lenient sentences to the Court of Appeal was extended so as to cover the offences of indecent assault, making threats to kill and child cruelty. All the most serious violent and sexual offences ale now within the scope of the power. After the Criminal Justice and Public Order Bill has received Royal Assent my right hon. and learned Friend intends to extend the power so that it will also apply to cases of serious fraud.