§ Mr. Nigel EvansTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many responses he has received commenting on the proposals in the consultation paper "Sentencing and Supervision of Sex Offenders". [956]
§ Mr. HowardWe have received 238 formal responses to the consultation paper. In general, there was strong support for all the proposals canvassed. Not all respondents commented on all five proposals outlined in the consultation paper. Of those who did, 94 per cent. were in favour of extended supervision for convicted sex offenders released from prison; 82 per cent. were in favour of DNA testing of convicted sex offenders still serving a prison sentence who have not already been DNA tested; 87 per cent. supported a requirement for convicted sex offenders to notify the police of their address and any subsequent change thereto; 87 per cent. also supported the proposal to make it an offence for convicted sex offenders who seek employment with children; and 91 per cent. supported the proposal for a supervised access regime for victim statements and photographs in sex cases.
I have considered all these responses carefully. The Crime (Sentences) Bill, published today, contains provision for the extended supervision of sex offenders after their release from custody. I will also be bringing forward proposals to require paedophiles and other serious sex offenders to notify changes of address to the police.
Other proposals for legislation will be brought forward when suitable opportunities arise.
§ Mr. AllenTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, when he expects to reply to the hon. Member for Nottingham North's letter of 17 October on the sale of drugs by Nottingham bouncers. [403]
§ Mr. MacleanA reply will be sent shortly.