Through the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill 2021 the Government are going to:
- Back our police by equipping officers with the powers and tools they need to keep themselves and all of us safe.
- Introduce tougher sentencing for the worst offenders and end automatic halfway release from prison for serious crimes.
- Improve the efficiency of the court and tribunal system by modernising existing court processes.
Sarah Dines said, ‘Last week I met the Lord Chancellor Robert Buckland and other Parliamentary colleagues to discuss the provisions of the new Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill which will equip the police with the powers they need to protect themselves and the public.
There is to be a much needed overhaul of sentencing laws to keep sexual and violent offenders behind bars for longer. The law will be strengthened in relation to preventing adults working in positions of trust with young people under 18, such as sports coaches and religious leaders from engaging in sexual relationships with young people under 18, in line with other occupations such as teachers and doctors. This is vital to make sure we are protecting our young people from anyone in a position of trust and I know this change will be welcomed by many parents and caregivers.
The Bill also introduces measures to boost the fight against knife crime and there will be tougher penalties for those who vandalise memorials, an issue upon which I receive many emails.
This bill will also give police the powers they need to swiftly and effectively tackle illegal encampments. This has especially been as issue around Bakewell, Ashbourne and Matlock where illegal encampments have occurred repeatedly. To be clear, those from the Travelling community that the Council owe a duty to, will continue to have access to support and in the future a permanent site will be provided as required by law.
This new offence will enable the police to fine or arrest those residing, without permission, on private or public land, in vehicles, in order to stop significant disruption, distress or harm being caused to the law-abiding majority.
The Conservatives promised a strengthened police force and we meant it. There is a lot in this Bill. It’s great to see the government striving forward with these manifesto commitments. I know from my post bag that action on these issues is very welcome in Derbyshire Dales.’
