Written question asked by Baroness Maclean of Redditch (Conservative) on Thursday, 23 July 2026, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 6 August 2026. It was answered by Lord Lemos (Labour) on Monday, 3 August 2026 on behalf of the Ministry of Justice.

Sexual Offences: Sentencing

Question: To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the appropriateness of current sentences for sexual offences.

Answer

Sentencing in individual cases is a matter for the independent judiciary. They must sentence within the legislative framework set by Parliament, and in line with the relevant Sentencing Council guidelines, unless not in the interest of justice to do so.

The Sexual Offences Act 2003 establishes a comprehensive framework of serious offences with robust maximum penalties. These penalties reflect the gravity with which such offending is treated.

The Government keeps criminal offences and the associated penalties under review to ensure that the legislative framework remains effective, proportionate and responsive to the seriousness of offending. The legislation has recently been further strengthened through the creation of specific sexual offences against children under 16, which carry a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. This demonstrates the Government’s commitment to ensuring that the law provides the highest level of protection for children and reflects the seriousness of these crimes.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: HL2711
Session: 2026-27
Subjects: Sentencing Sexual offences
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk

Sexual Offences: Sentencing

Secondary information

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