HC Deb 31 July 1998 vol 317 cc859-60W
Dr. Harris

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans he has to alter the provisions in the Sex Offenders Act 1997 relating to those convicted for crimes which would be legal if the age of consent were reduced to 16 years for homosexual acts. [53927]

Mr. Michael

The issue will be considered in due course.

Dr. Harris

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans he has to issue new guidance on the sentencing of men aged between 16 and 18 years for engaging in consenting homosexual acts in private. [53928]

Mr. Michael

None. Sentencing guidelines are a matter for the Court of Appeal, which provides guidance on the appropriate sentencing range for criminal offences through its judgments in individual cases.

The Crime and Disorder Bill [Lords] also contains provisions to build on and improve the current system of sentencing guidelines. Provisions in the Bill place a statutory duty on the Court of Appeal to consider producing sentencing guidelines. There will also be a new sentencing advisory panel established by the Bill, which will give advice to the Court of Appeal on sentencing.