SENTENCING FOR GROSS INDECENCY IN NORTHERN IRELAND

Early day motion 416, tabled 18 December 2002 by Gregory Campbell (DUP). Signed by 22 members.

That this House notes the fact that the maximum sentence for gross indecency with a child is two years in Northern Ireland whilst it is 10 years in England and Wales; notes the comments of the Lord Chief Justice of Northern Ireland, Sir Robert Carswell, that the maximum sentence should be amended in Northern Ireland; and calls for legislation to be introduced to bring the sentencing power for judges in Northern Ireland in this area into line with England and Wales.

Signatures by party: Labour 11, DUP 4, UUP 3, Conservative 2, Labour/Co-operative 1, Liberal Democrat 1.