§ 39. Mr. Clifton-BrownTo ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department what recent guidance he has given to magistrates regarding sentencing policy for drug dealing with intent to supply. [130610]
§ Jane KennedyNone. Within the statutory limits laid down by Parliament, the nature and severity of penalties imposed by the court are matters of judicial discretion subject to any guidelines laid down by the Court of Appeal (Criminal Division).
The Magistrates Association has recently published the Magistrates' Courts Sentencing Guidelines which has been sent to all magistrates. This contains guidance on sentencing in all types of case, including cases of supplying drugs.