HC Deb 02 June 1998 vol 313 c167W
Mr. Cohen

To 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. Michael

Provisions 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.