Written question asked by Jamie Cann (Labour) on Tuesday, 16 January 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 22 January 2001. It was answered by Lord Boateng (Labour) on Monday, 22 January 2001 on behalf of the Home Office.

Home Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what criteria he will use in setting a release date for Robert Thompson and Jon Venables; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Mr. Cann: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what criteria he will use in setting a release date for Robert Thompson and Jon Venables; and if he will make a statement. [146416] Mr. Boateng: The decision whether to release those detained at Her Majesty's pleasure, once tariff has expired, is a matter for the independent Parole Board following a hearing of the case by a panel of three members of the Board. The timing of the hearing is for the Board to decide. Before directing release, the Board must be satisfied, in accordance with section 28(6)(b) of the Crime (Sentences) Act 1997, that it is no longer necessary for the protection of the public for the detainee to continue to be confined.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 361 c483W;361 c486W; 146416
Session: 2000-01
Subjects: Custodial treatment Homicide Prisoners' release Sentencing Young offenders Bulger, James Venables, Jon Thompson, Robert
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk