§ Baroness Davidasked Her Majesty's Government:
What action they intend to take in respect of electronically monitored curfew orders for 10 to 15 year-olds following the pilots in Greater Manchester and Norfolk. [HL4715]
§ Lord Bassam of BrightonMy right honourable friend the Home Secretary has announced today that, following successful trials, electronically monitored curfew orders for 10–15 year olds will be available to the courts from 1 February 2000.
The curfew orders will be a means of keeping young offenders at home, off the streets and away from shopping centres and other places where they may get into trouble. By keeping young offenders out of harm's way, we believe the curfew order should be able to prevent young offenders from reoffending and help protect the public.
59WAThe roll-out of electronically monitored curfews for 10–15 year olds should be seen within the context of the youth justice reforms as a whole. Tackling youth crime and reforming the youth justice system remains a key priority.
The evaluation report of the trials is being published today. Copies have been placed in the Library.