§ Mr. HancockTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans he has to extend the use of restorative justice, with particular reference to(a) mediation and (b) reparation; and if he will make a statement. [126818]
§ Paul GogginsThe Government's restorative justice strategy, issued on 22 July 2003, sets out proposals to extend the use of restorative justice, including mediation and reparation to victims and the community.
The Government aims to maximise the use of restorative justice in the Criminal Justice System, where we know it works well, to meet victims' needs and to reduce re-offending, and in society at large to resolve disputes and build strong, active communities. The strategy will also encourage more high quality, visible reparation by offenders to the community. The key link between restorative justice and reparation is that both are ways the offender can take responsibility for the harm they have caused and put it right. Both are ways that the Criminal Justice System can bring visible benefits to victims and other ordinary citizens, and be seen to be responsive to their needs. In practice, restorative justice can often lead to the offender making reparation to their victim, or to the wider community.
The launch of this strategy (which can be found on the Home Office website) marks the start of a 12-week consultation process. Officials have been working closely with criminal justice practitioners and the voluntary sector to develop the restorative justice strategy. Comments on the consultation paper are welcome.