HL Deb 09 October 2000 vol 617 cc9-10WA
Lord Hylton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will examine the experience in the Netherlands of allowing women with the care of children who are sentenced to imprisonment a period of grace before starting their sentence in order to make the best possible care arrangements for their children. [HL3888]

Lord Bassam of Brighton

There is an opportunity whilst pre-sentence reports are being prepared to consider what childcare arrangements should be put into place, should a custodial sentence be an option. We do not have any plans to bring forward such legislation in the immediate future.