MP Welcomes Tougher Sentencing for Knife Crime

Adrian Bailey MP this week welcomed Government proposals to introduce tougher sentencing for knife crime. As part of a group of sixteen MPs summoned to a delegated legislation committee to examine the proposals, the local MP for West Bromwich West backed the Governments introduction of a minimum sentence of 25 years for adults committing murder using a knife or other weapons taken to the scene with the intention to commit and offence or having it available for use as a weapon.

The amendment to the Criminal Justice Act 2003 is a result of months of Government consultation with the public and the Sentencing Guidelines Council.

Speaking after the Committee meeting, local MP Adrian Bailey said:

“I am pleased that the Government has acted to ensure that punishment fits the crime. I know that there has been public concern that in the past sentencing for knife crime has been too lenient. Between one third and one half of all murders are carried out by a sharp instrument. This change in sentencing allows the courts to give greater protection for the public by longer sentencing.”