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Crime (Sentences) Act 1997

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Point in time view as at 18/12/2003.

Changes to legislation:

Crime (Sentences) Act 1997 is up to date with all changes known to be in force on or before 04 May 2024. There are changes that may be brought into force at a future date. Changes that have been made appear in the content and are referenced with annotations. Help about Changes to Legislation

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F1Part IE+W

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Textual Amendments

F1Pt. I (ss. 1-7) repealed (25.8.2000) by 2000 c. 6, ss. 165, 168(1), Sch. 12 Pt. I (with Sch. 11 paras. 1, 2)

Part IIE+W Effect of custodial sentences

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C3Pt. II applied in part (with modifications) (1.10.1997) by S.I. 1997/1776, art. 2, Sch. 1 paras. 2-4; S.I. 1997/2200, art. 2(1)

Chapter IE+W Determinate sentences

GeneralE+W

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F10S. 9 repealed (25.8.2000) by 2000 c. 6, ss. 165, 168(1), Sch. 12 Pt. I (with Sch. 11 paras. 1, 2)

F119A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

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F11S. 9A repealed (25.8.2000) by 2000 c. 6, ss. 165, 168(1), Sch. 12 Pt. I (with Sch. 11 paras. 1, 2)

Early releaseE+W

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Supervision after releaseE+W

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SupplementalE+W

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Textual Amendments

Chapter IIE+W Life sentences

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

Release on licenceE+W

28 Duty to release certain life prisoners.E+W

[F30[F31(1A)This section applies to a life prisoner in respect of whom a minimum term order has been made; and any reference in this section to the relevant part of such a prisoner’s sentence is a reference to the part of the sentence specified in the order.]

(1B)But if a life prisoner is serving two or more life sentences—

(a)[F32this section does not apply to him] unless [F33a minimum term order has been made in respect of each of those sentences]; and

(b)the provisions of subsections (5) to (8) below do not apply in relation to him until he has served the relevant part of each of them.

(5)As soon as—

(a)a life prisoner to whom this section applies has served the relevant part of his sentence; and]

(b)the Parole Board has directed his release under this section,

it shall be the duty of the Secretary of State to release him on licence.

(6)The Parole Board shall not give a direction under subsection (5) above with respect to a life prisoner to whom this section applies unless—

(a)the Secretary of State has referred the prisoner’s case to the Board; and

(b)the Board is satisfied that it is no longer necessary for the protection of the public that the prisoner should be confined.

(7)A life prisoner to whom this section applies may require the Secretary of State to refer his case to the Parole Board at any time—

(a)after he has served the relevant part of his sentence; and

(b)where there has been a previous reference of his case to the Board, after the end of the period of two years beginning with the disposal of that reference; and

(c)where he is also serving a sentence of imprisonment or detention for a term, after [F34he has served one-half of that sentence];

and in this subsection “previous reference” means a reference under subsection (6) above or section 32(4) below.

(8)In determining for the purpose of subsection (5) or (7) above whether a life prisoner to whom this section applies has served the relevant part of his sentence, no account shall be taken of any time during which he was unlawfully at large within the meaning of section 49 of the M17Prison Act 1952.

[F35(8A)In this section “minimum term order” means an order under—

(a)subsection (2) of section 82A of the Powers of Criminal Courts (Sentencing) Act 2000 (determination of minimum term in respect of life sentence that is not fixed by law), or

(b)subsection (2) of section 269 of the Criminal Justice Act 2003 (determination of minimum term in respect of mandatory life sentence).]

F36(9). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F30S. 28(1A)(1B)-(5)(a) substituted for s. 28(1)-(5)(a) (30.11.2000 with effect as mentioned in Sch. 7 para. 145 of the substituting Act) by 2000 c. 43, s. 74, Sch. 7 Pt. II para. 136(a)

F31S. 28(1A) substituted (18.12.2003) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), s. 275(1)(2), 336(2)

F32Words in s. 28(1B)(a) substituted (18.12.2003) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), ss. 275(3)(a), 336(2)

F33Words in s. 28(1B)(a) substituted (18.12.2003) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), ss. 275(3)(b), 336(2)

F34Words in s. 28(7)(c) substituted (30.9.1998) by 1998 c. 37, s. 119, Sch. 8 para. 130(2); S.I. 1998/2327, art. 2(2)(ll)

F35S. 28(8A) inserted (18.12.2003) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), s. 275(1)(4), 336(2)

F36S. 28(9) repealed (30.11.2000 with effect as mentioned in Sch. 7 para. 145 and notes to Sch. 8 of the repealing Act) by 2000 c. 43, ss. 74, 75, Sch. 7 Pt. II para. 136(b), Sch. 8

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C5S. 28: exercise of functions restricted in or as regards Scotland (30.6.1999) by S.I. 1999/1748, art. 8(2), Sch. 4 Pt. I para. 1(1)

C7S. 28(1B) modified (30.11.2000) by 2000 c. 43, ss. 74, 80(3)(d), Sch. 7 Pt. II para. 146-148

Marginal Citations

F3729 Power to release other life prisoners.E+W

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Textual Amendments

30 Power to release life prisoners on compassionate grounds.E+W

(1)The Secretary of State may at any time release a life prisoner on licence if he is satisfied that exceptional circumstances exist which justify the prisoner’s release on compassionate grounds.

(2)Before releasing a life prisoner under subsection (1) above, the Secretary of State shall consult the Parole Board, unless the circumstances are such as to render such consultation impracticable.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C8S. 30: exercise of functions restricted in or as regards Scotland (30.6.1999) by S.I. 1999/1748, art. 8(2), Sch. 4 Pt. I para. 1(1)

Licences and recallE+W

31 Duration and conditions of licences.E+W

(1)Where a life prisoner is released on licence, the licence shall, unless previously revoked under section 32(1) or (2) below, remain in force until his death.

(2)A life prisoner subject to a licence shall comply with such conditions F38. . . as may for the time being be specified in the licence; and the Secretary of State may make rules for regulating the supervision of any description of such persons.

[F39(2A)The conditions so specified shall include on the prisoner’s release conditions as to his supervision by—

(a)[F40an officer of a local probation board] appointed for or assigned to the petty sessions area within which the prisoner resides for the time being;

(b)where the prisoner is under the age of 22, a social worker of the social services department of the local authority within whose area the prisoner resides for the time being; or

(c)where the prisoner is under the age of 18, a member of a youth offending team established by that local authority under section 39 of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998.]

(3)The Secretary of State shall not include on release, or subsequently insert, a condition in the licence of a life prisoner, or vary or cancel any such condition, [F41except in accordance with recommendations of the Parole Board].

F42(4). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(5)The power to make rules under this section shall be exercisable by statutory instrument which shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.

(6)In relation to a life prisoner who is liable to removal from the United Kingdom (within the meaning given by [F43section 46(3) of the 1991 Act]), subsection (2) above shall have effect as if [F43subsection (2A) above] were omitted.

Textual Amendments

F38Words in s. 31(2) repealed (30.9.1998 in the areas specified in S.I. 1998/2327, Sch. 1 and otherwise 1.4.2000) by 1998 c. 37, ss. 119, 120(2), Sch. 8 para. 131(1), Sch. 10; S.I. 1998/2327, art. 3(1)(b)(c), Sch. 1; S.I. 2000/924, art. 3

F39S. 31(2A) inserted (30.9.1998 in the areas specified in S.I. 1998/2327, Sch. 1 and otherwise 1.4.2000) by 1998 c. 37, s. 119, Sch. 8 para. 131(2); S.I. 1998/2327, art. 3(1)(b), Sch. 1; S.I. 2000/924, art. 3

F40Words in s. 31(2A)(a) substituted (1.4.2001) by 2000 c. 43, s. 74, Sch. 7 Pt. I para. 4(1)(a)(2); S.I. 2001/919, art. 2(f)(i)

F41Words in s. 31(3) substituted (18.12.2003) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), s. 336(2), Sch. 32 para. 83(2)

F43Words in s. 31(6) substituted (30.9.1998) by 1998 c. 37, s. 119, Sch. 8 para. 131(3); S.I. 1998/2327, art. 2(2)(mm).

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C9S. 31: exercise of functions restricted in or as regards Scotland (30.6.1999) by S.I. 1999/1748, art. 8(2), Sch. 4 Pt. I para. 1

C10S. 31(6) modified (1.1.1998) by S.I. 1997/2200, art. 5(3)(a)

S. 31(6) modified (19.9.1998) by S.I. 1998/2327, art. 5(1)(b).

32 Recall of life prisoners while on licence.E+W

(1)If recommended to do so by the Parole Board in the case of a life prisoner who has been released on licence under this Chapter, the Secretary of State may revoke his licence and recall him to prison.

(2)The Secretary of State may revoke the licence of any life prisoner and recall him to prison without a recommendation by the Parole Board, where it appears to him that it is expedient in the public interest to recall that person before such a recommendation is practicable.

(3)A life prisoner recalled to prison under subsection (1) or (2) above—

(a)may make representations in writing with respect to his recall; and

(b)on his return to prison, shall be informed of the reasons for his recall and of his right to make representations.

(4)The Secretary of State shall refer to the Parole Board—

(a)the case of a life prisoner recalled under subsection (1) above who makes representations under subsection (3) above; and

(b)the case of a life prisoner recalled under subsection (2) above.

[F44(5)Where on a reference under subsection (4) above the Parole Board directs the immediate release on licence under this section of the life prisoner, the Secretary of State shall give effect to the direction.]

(6)On the revocation of the licence of any life prisoner under this section, he shall be liable to be detained in pursuance of his sentence and, if at large, shall be deemed to be unlawfully at large.

Textual Amendments

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C11S. 32: exercise of functions restricted in or as regards Scotland (30.6.1999) by S.I. 1999/1748, art. 8(2), Sch. 4 Pt. I para. 1

Miscellaneous and supplementalE+W

F4533 Life prisoners transferred to England and Wales.E+W

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Textual Amendments

34 Interpretation of Chapter II.E+W

(1)In this Chapter “life prisoner” means a person serving one or more life sentences [F46and includes a transferred life prisoner as defined by section 273 of the Criminal Justice Act 2003] ; F47. . .

(2)In this section “life sentence” means any of the following imposed for an offence, whether committed before or after the commencement of this Chapter, namely—

(a)a sentence of imprisonment for life;

(b)a sentence of detention during Her Majesty’s pleasure or for life under [F48section 90 or 91 of the Powers of Criminal Courts (Sentencing) Act 2000]; and

(c)a sentence of custody for life under [F48section 93 or 94 of that Act].

(3)F49... in subsection (2) above—

(a)the reference to [F48section 90 or 91 of the Powers of Criminal Courts (Sentencing) Act 2000] includes a reference to subsections (3) and (4) of section 71A of the M18Army Act 1955 and the M19Air Force Act 1955 and section 43A of the M20Naval Discipline Act 1957; and

(b)the reference to [F48 section 93 or 94 of that Act of 2000] includes a reference to subsections (1A) and (1B) of [F48section 71A of the Army Act 1955 and the Air Force Act 1955 and section 43A of the Naval Discipline Act 1957.]

[F50(4)Where a person has been sentenced to one or more life sentences and to one or more terms of imprisonment, nothing in this Chapter shall require the Secretary of State to release the person in respect of any of the life sentences unless and until the Secretary of State is required to release him in respect of each of the terms.]

Textual Amendments

F47Word in s. 34(1) repealed (30.11.2000 with effect as mentioned in Sch. 7 para. 145 and notes to Sch. 8 of the repealing Act) by 2000 c. 43, ss. 74, 75, 80(3)(d), Sch. 7 Pt. II para. 138, Sch. 8

F48Words in s. 34(2)(3) substituted (25.8.2000) by 2000 c. 6, ss. 165, 168(1), Sch. 9 para. 183(2)(3)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C12S. 34: exercise of functions restricted in or as regards Scotland (30.6.1999) by S.I. 1999/1748, art. 8(2), Sch. 4 Pt. I para. 1

C13S. 34(1) extended (18.12.2003) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), s. 336(2), Sch. 22 para. 17

Marginal Citations

Part IIIU.K. Miscellaneous and supplemental

Community sentencesE+W

35 Fine defaulters: general.E+W

(1)Subsection (2) below applies in any case where a magistrates’ court—

(a)has power under Part III of [F51the Magistrates’ Courts Act 1980 (“the 1980 Act”)] to issue a warrant of commitment for default in paying a sum adjudged to be paid by a conviction of a magistrates’ court (other than a sum ordered to be paid under section 71 of the M21Criminal Justice Act 1988 or section 2 of the M22Drug Trafficking Act 1994 [F52or section 6 of the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002]); or

(b)would, but for [F53section 89 of the Powers of Criminal Courts (Sentencing) Act 2000] (restrictions on custodial sentences for persons under 21), have power to issue such a warrant for such default.

(2)The magistrates’ court may—

(a)subject to subsections (4) to (6) [F54, (10) and (11)] below, make a community service order; or

(b)subject to subsections (7) to (11) below, make a curfew order,

in respect of the person in default instead of issuing a warrant of commitment or, as the case may be, proceeding under section 81 of the 1980 Act (enforcement of fines imposed on young offenders).

(3)Where a magistrates’ court has power to make an order under subsection (2)(a) or (b) above, it may, if it thinks it expedient to do so, postpone the making of the order until such time and on such conditions, if any, as it thinks just.

[F55(4)Section 46(1) of the Powers of Criminal Courts (Sentencing) Act 2000 (community service orders) shall apply for the purposes of subsection (2)(a) above as if for the words from the beginning to “make” there were substituted “Where section 35(2) of the Crime (Sentences) Act 1997 applies, the court may make in respect of the offender”; and—

(a)section 46(3) and (4) of that Act, and

(b)so far as applicable, the following provisions of section 46 of that Act and the other provisions of Part IV of that Act relating to community service orders,

have effect in relation to a community service order made by virtue of this section as they have effect in relation to any community service order made under that Act, subject to the exceptions in subsection (5) below.

F55(5)The following are the exceptions, namely—

(a)the reference in section 46(3)(a) of that Act to 40 hours shall be construed as a reference to 20 hours;

(b)section 46(8) of that Act shall not apply;

(c)the power conferred by paragraph 4(1)(d) of Schedule 3 to that Act shall be construed as a power to revoke the order or deal with the person in respect of whom the order was made for his default in paying the sum in question or do both of those things;

(d)paragraph 4(2)(a) and (3) of that Schedule shall not apply;

(e)the reference in paragraph 10(1)(b) of that Schedule to the offence in respect of which the order was made shall be construed as a reference to the default in respect of which the order was made;

(f)the power conferred by paragraph 10(3)(b) of that Schedule to deal with an offender for the offence in respect of which the order was made shall be construed as a power to deal with the person in respect of whom the order was made for his default in paying the sum in question; and

(g)paragraph 11(2)(b) of that Schedule shall not apply.]

(6)In the case of an amount in default which is described in the first column of the following Table, the period of community service specified in an order under subsection (2)(a) above shall not exceed the number of hours set out opposite that amount in the second column of that Table.

Table
AmountNumber of hours
An amount not exceeding £20040 hours
An amount exceeding £200 but not exceeding £50060 hours
An amount exceeding £500100 hours

[F56(7)Section 37(1) of the Powers of Criminal Courts (Sentencing) Act 2000 (curfew orders) shall apply for the purposes of subsection (2)(b) above as if for the words from the beginning to “make” there were substituted “Where section 35(2) of the Crime (Sentences) Act 1997 applies, the court may make in respect of the offender”; and—

(a)section 37(3), (5) to (8) and (10) to (12) of that Act, and

(b)so far as applicable, the other provisions of Part IV of that Act relating to curfew orders,

have effect in relation to a curfew order made by virtue of this section as they have effect in relation to any curfew order made under that Act, subject to the exceptions in subsection (8) below.

F56(8)The following are the exceptions, namely—

(a)the power conferred by paragraph 4(1)(d) of Schedule 3 to that Act shall be construed as a power to revoke the order or deal with the person in respect of whom the order was made for his default in paying the sum in question or do both of those things;

(b)paragraph 4(2)(a) and (3) of that Schedule shall not apply;

(c)the reference in paragraph 10(1)(b) of that Schedule to the offence in respect of which the order was made shall be construed as a reference to the default in respect of which the order was made;

(d)the power conferred by paragraph 10(3)(b) of that Schedule to deal with an offender for the offence in respect of which the order was made shall be construed as a power to deal with the person in respect of whom the order was made for his default in paying the sum in question; and

(e)paragraph 11(2)(b) of that Schedule shall not apply.]

(9)In the case of an amount in default which is described in the first column of the following Table, the number of days to which an order under subsection (2)(b) above relates shall not exceed the number of days set out opposite that amount in the second column of that Table.

Table
AmountNumber of days
An amount not exceeding £20020 days
An amount exceeding £200 but not exceeding £50030 days
An amount exceeding £500 but not exceeding £1,00060 days
An amount exceeding £1,000 but not exceeding £2,50090 days
An amount exceeding £2,500180 days

(10)A magistrates’ court shall not make an order under [F57subsection (2)(a) or (b)] above in respect of a person who is under 16.

(11)A magistrates court shall not make an order under subsection (2)(a) or (b) above unless the court has been notified by the Secretary of State that arrangements for implementing such orders are available in the relevant area and the notice has not been withdrawn.

(12)In subsection (11) above “the relevant area” means—

(a)in relation to an order under subsection (2)(a) above, the area proposed to be specified in the order;

(b)in relation to an order under subsection (2)(b) above, the area in which the place proposed to be specified in the order is situated.

[F58(12A)Sections 35 and 36 of the Powers of Criminal Courts (Sentencing) Act 2000 (restrictions and procedural requirements for community sentences) do not apply in relation to an order under subsection (2)(a) or (b) above.]

(13)Where an order has been made under subsection (2)(a) or (b) above for default in paying any sum—

(a)on payment of the whole sum to any person authorised to receive it, the order shall cease to have effect;

(b)on payment of a part of that sum to any such person, the total number of hours or days to which the order relates shall be reduced proportionately;

and the total number is so reduced if it is reduced by such number of complete hours or days as bears to the total number the proportion most nearly approximating to, without exceeding, the proportion which the part paid bears to the whole sum.

(14)The Secretary of State may by order direct that subsection (5)(a), (6) or (9) above shall be amended by substituting for any number of hours or days there specified such number of hours or days as may be specified in the order.

(15)The power to make an order under this section shall be exercisable by statutory instrument; but no such order shall be made unless a draft of the order has been laid before and approved by a resolution of each House of Parliament.

Textual Amendments

F51Words in s. 35(1)(a) substituted (30.9.1998) by 1998 c. 37, s. 119, Sch. 8 para. 132(1); S.I. 1998/2327, art. 2(2)(nn).

F53Words in s. 35(1)(b) substituted (25.8.2000) by 2000 c. 6, ss. 165, 168(1), Sch. 9 para. 184(2)

F54Words in s. 35(2)(a) substituted (30.9.1998) by 1998 c. 37, s. 106, Sch. 7 para. 50(1); S.I. 1998/2327, art. 2(1)(w).

F55S. 35(4)(5) substituted (25.8.2000) by 2000 c. 6, ss. 165, 168(1), Sch. 9 para. 184(3)

F56S. 35(7)(8) substituted (25.8.2000) by 2000 c. 6, ss. 165, 168(1), Sch. 9 para. 184(4)

F57Words in s. 35(10) substituted (30.9.1998) by 1998 c. 37, s. 106, Sch. 7 para. 50(6); S.I. 1998/2327, art. 2(1)(w).

F58S. 35(12A) inserted (25.8.2000) by 2000 c. 6, ss. 165, 168(1), Sch. 9 para. 184(5)

Commencement Information

I4S. 35 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 57(2). S. 35 in force at 1.1.1998 by 1997/2200, art. 3 (subject to savings in art. 5)

Marginal Citations

F5936. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

F59S. 36 repealed (25.8.2000) by 2000 c. 6, ss. 165, 168(1), Sch. 12 Pt. I (with Sch. 11 paras. 1, 2)

F6037. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

F60S. 37 repealed (25.8.2000) by 2000 c. 6, ss. 165, 168(1), Sch. 12 Pt. I (with Sch. 11 paras. 1, 2)

F6138. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

F61S. 38 repealed (25.8.2000) by 2000 c. 6, ss. 165, 168(1), Sch. 12 Pt. I (with Sch. 11 paras. 1, 2)

Driving disqualificationsE+W

F6239. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

F62S. 39 repealed (25.8.2000) by 2000 c. 6, ss. 165, 168(1), Sch. 12 Pt. I (with Sch. 11 paras. 1, 2)

40 Fine defaulters.E+W

(1)This section applies in any case where a magistrates’ court—

(a)has power under Part III of the 1980 Act to issue a warrant of commitment for default in paying a sum adjudged to be paid by a conviction of a magistrates’ court (other than a sum ordered to be paid under section 71 of the M23Criminal Justice Act 1988 or section 2 of the M24Drug Trafficking Act 1994 [F63or section 6 of the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002] ); or

(b)would, but for [F64section 89 of the Powers of Criminal Courts (Sentencing) Act 2000] (restrictions on custodial sentences for persons under 21), have power to issue such a warrant for such default.

(2)Subject to subsection (3) below, the magistrates’ court may, instead of issuing a warrant of commitment or, as the case may be, proceeding under section 81 of the 1980 Act (enforcement of fines imposed on young offenders), order the person in default to be disqualified, for such period not exceeding twelve months as it thinks fit, for holding or obtaining a driving licence.

(3)A magistrates court shall not make an order under subsection (2) above unless the court has been notified by the Secretary of State that the power to make such orders is exercisable by the court and the notice has not been withdrawn.

(4)Where an order has been made under subsection (2) above for default in paying any sum—

(a)on payment of the whole sum to any person authorised to receive it, the order shall cease to have effect;

(b)on payment of a part of that sum to any such person, the number of weeks or months to which the order relates shall be reduced proportionately;

and the total number is so reduced if it is reduced by such number of complete weeks or months as bears to the total number the proportion most nearly approximating to, without exceeding, the proportion which the part paid bears to the whole sum.

(5)The Secretary of State may by order made by statutory instrument vary the period specified in subsection (2) above; but no such order shall be made unless a draft of the order has been laid before and approved by a resolution of each House of Parliament.

[F65(6)A court which makes an order under this section disqualifying a person for holding or obtaining a driving licence shall require him to produce any such licence held by him together with its counterpart.

(7)In this section—

  • driving licence” means a licence to drive a motor vehicle granted under Part III of the Road Traffic Act 1988;

  • counterpart”, in relation to a driving licence, has the meaning given in relation to such a licence by section 108(1) of that Act.]

Textual Amendments

F64Words in s. 40(1)(b) substituted (25.8.2000) by 2000 c. 6, ss. 165, 168(1), Sch. 9 para. 185(2)

F65S. 40(6)(7) substituted (25.8.2000) for s. 40(6) by 2000 c. 6, ss. 165, 168(1), Sch. 9 para. 185(3)

Commencement Information

I5S. 40 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 57(2). S. 40 in force at 1.1.1998 by 1997/2200, art. 3 (subject to savings in art. 5)

Marginal Citations

Transfer and repatriation of prisonersU.K.

41 Transfer of prisoners within the British Islands.U.K.

Schedule 1 to this Act (which makes provision with respect to the transfer of prisoners within the British Islands) shall have effect.

42 Repatriation of prisoners to the British Islands.U.K.

Schedule 2 to this Act (which makes provision, including retrospective provision, with respect to prisoners repatriated to the British Islands) shall have effect.

Young offendersE+W+S

F6643. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

F66S. 43 repealed (25.8.2000) by 2000 c. 6, ss. 165, 168(1), Sch. 12 Pt. I (with Sch. 11 paras. 1, 2)

F6744. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

F67S. 44 repealed (25.8.2000) by 2000 c. 6, ss. 165, 168(1), Sch. 12 Pt. I (with Sch. II paras. 1, 2)

45 Publication of reports.E+W+S

(1)After subsection (4) of section 49 of the 1933 Act (restrictions on reports of proceedings in which children or young persons are concerned) there shall be inserted the following subsections—

(4A)If a court is satisfied that it is in the public interest to do so, it may, in relation to a child or young person who has been convicted of an offence, by order dispense to any specified extent with the requirements of this section in relation to any proceedings before it to which this section applies by virtue of subsection (2)(a) or (b) above, being proceedings relating to—

(a)the prosecution or conviction of the offender for the offence;

(b)the manner in which he, or his parent or guardian, should be dealt with in respect of the offence;

(c)the enforcement, amendment, variation, revocation or discharge of any order made in respect of the offence;

(d)where an attendance centre order is made in respect of the offence, the enforcement of any rules made under section 16(3) of the M25Criminal Justice Act 1982; or

(e)where a secure training order is so made, the enforcement of any requirements imposed under section 3(7) of the M26Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994.

(4B)A court shall not exercise its power under subsection (4A) above without—

(a)affording the parties to the proceedings an opportunity to make representations; and

(b)taking into account any representations which are duly made.

(2)Subsection (1) above shall not apply where the offence was committed before the commencement of this section.

Marginal Citations

Mentally disordered offendersU.K.

46 Power to make hospital and limitation directions.E+W

After section 45 of the 1983 Act there shall be inserted the following sections—

Hospital and limitation directionsE+W
45A Power of higher courts to direct hospital admission.

(1)This section applies where, in the case of a person convicted before the Crown Court of an offence the sentence for which is not fixed by law—

(a)the conditions mentioned in subsection (2) below are fulfilled; and

(b)except where the offence is one the sentence for which falls to be imposed under section 2 of the Crime (Sentences) Act 1997, the court considers making a hospital order in respect of him before deciding to impose a sentence of imprisonment (“the relevant sentence”) in respect of the offence.

(2)The conditions referred to in subsection (1) above are that the court is satisfied, on the written or oral evidence of two registered medical practitioners—

(a)that the offender is suffering from psychopathic disorder;

(b)that the mental disorder from which the offender is suffering is of a nature or degree which makes it appropriate for him to be detained in a hospital for medical treatment; and

(c)that such treatment is likely to alleviate or prevent a deterioration of his condition.

(3)The court may give both of the following directions, namely—

(a)a direction that, instead of being removed to and detained in a prison, the offender be removed to and detained in such hospital as may be specified in the direction (in this Act referred to as a “hospital direction”); and

(b)a direction that the offender be subject to the special restrictions set out in section 41 above (in this Act referred to as a “limitation direction”).

(4)A hospital direction and a limitation direction shall not be given in relation to an offender unless at least one of the medical practitioners whose evidence is taken into account by the court under subsection (2) above has given evidence orally before the court.

(5)A hospital direction and a limitation direction shall not be given in relation to an offender unless the court is satisfied on the written or oral evidence of the registered medical practitioner who would be in charge of his treatment, or of some other person representing the managers of the hospital that arrangements have been made—

(a)for his admission to that hospital; and

(b)for his admission to it within the period of 28 days beginning with the day of the giving of such directions;

and the court may, pending his admission within that period, give such directions as it thinks fit for his conveyance to and detention in a place of safety.

(6)If within the said period of 28 days it appears to the Secretary of State that by reason of an emergency or other special circumstances it is not practicable for the patient to be received into the hospital specified in the hospital direction, he may give instructions for the admission of the patient to such other hospital as appears to be appropriate instead of the hospital so specified.

(7)Where such instructions are given—

(a)the Secretary of State shall cause the person having the custody of the patient to be informed, and

(b)the hospital direction shall have effect as if the hospital specified in the instructions were substituted for the hospital specified in the hospital direction.

(8)Section 38(1) and (5) and section 39 above shall have effect as if any reference to the making of a hospital order included a reference to the giving of a hospital direction and a limitation direction.

(9)A hospital direction and a limitation direction given in relation to an offender shall have effect not only as regards the relevant sentence but also (so far as applicable) as regards any other sentence of imprisonment imposed on the same or a previous occasion.

(10)The Secretary of State may by order provide that this section shall have effect as if the reference in subsection (2) above to psychopathic disorder included a reference to a mental disorder of such other description as may be specified in the order.

(11)An order made under this section may—

(a)apply generally, or in relation to such classes of offenders or offences as may be specified in the order;

(b)provide that any reference in this section to a sentence of imprisonment, or to a prison, shall include a reference to a custodial sentence, or to an institution, of such description as may be so specified; and

(c)include such supplementary, incidental or consequential provisions as appear to the Secretary of State to be necessary or expedient.

45B Effect of hospital and limitation directions.

(1)A hospital direction and a limitation direction shall be sufficient authority—

(a)for a constable or any other person directed to do so by the court to convey the patient to the hospital specified in the hospital direction within a period of 28 days; and

(b)for the managers of the hospital to admit him at any time within that period and thereafter detain him in accordance with the provisions of this Act.

(2)With respect to any person—

(a)a hospital direction shall have effect as a transfer direction; and

(b)a limitation direction shall have effect as a restriction direction.

(3)While a person is subject to a hospital direction and a limitation direction the responsible medical officer shall at such intervals (not exceeding one year) as the Secretary of State may direct examine and report to the Secretary of State on that person; and every report shall contain such particulars as the Secretary of State may require.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C14S. 46 excluded (1.1.1998) by S.I. 1997/2200, art. 5(1)

47 Power to specify hospital units.E+W

(1)Subject to subsection (2) below, any power to specify a hospital which is conferred by—

(a)section 37 of the 1983 Act (hospital orders);

(b)section 45A of that Act (hospital and limitation directions);

(c)section 47 of that Act (transfer directions); or

(d)paragraph 1 of Schedule 1 to the M27Criminal Procedure (Insanity and Unfitness to Plead) Act 1991 (orders for admission to hospital),

includes power to specify a hospital unit; and where such a unit is specified in relation to any person in the exercise of such a power, any reference in any enactment (including one contained in this Act) to him being, or being liable to be, detained in a hospital shall be construed accordingly.

(2)In subsection (1) above—

(a)paragraph (a) shall not apply unless the court also makes an order under section 41 of the 1983 Act (restriction orders);

(b)paragraph (c) shall not apply unless the Secretary of State also gives a direction under section 49 of that Act (restriction directions); and

(c)paragraph (d) shall not apply unless the court has given a direction under paragraph 2(1)(b) of Schedule 1 to the Criminal Procedure (Insanity and Unfitness to Plead) Act 1991.

(3)In this section—

  • hospital”, in relation to any exercise of a power, has the same meaning as in the enactment which confers the power;

  • hospital unit” means any part of a hospital which is treated as a separate unit.

(4)In this section—

(a)the reference to paragraph 1 of Schedule 1 to the Criminal Procedure (Insanity and Unfitness to Plead) Act 1991 includes a reference to subsection (1) of section 116B of the M28Army Act 1955 and the M29Air Force Act 1955 and section 63B of the M30Naval Discipline Act 1957; and

(b)the reference to paragraph 2(1)(b) of that Schedule includes a reference to subsection (2) of those sections.

48 Offenders conditionally discharged from hospital.U.K.

(1)The 1983 Act and the 1984 Act shall have effect subject to the amendments specified in Schedule 3 to this Act, being amendments making provision with respect to transfers within the British Islands of responsibility for offenders conditionally discharged from hospital.

(2)In this section and that Schedule “the 1984 Act” means the M31Mental Health (Scotland) Act 1984.

Marginal Citations

49 Other amendments of the 1983 Act.E+W

(1)In subsection (5) of section 38 of the 1983 Act (interim hospital orders), for the words “six months” there shall be substituted the words “ twelve months ”.

(2)In subsection (3) of section 41 of that Act (power of higher courts to restrict discharge from hospital), in paragraph (c)(ii), after the words “section 19 above” there shall be inserted the words “ or in pursuance of subsection (3) of that section ”.

(3)In subsection (1) of section 47 of that Act (removal to hospital of persons serving sentences of imprisonment etc.), the words “(not being a mental nursing home)” shall cease to have effect.

(4)In paragraph 5 of Part II of Schedule 1 to that Act (patients subject to hospital and guardianship orders)—

(a)the word “and” immediately following sub-paragraph (a) shall cease to have effect; and

(b)after sub-paragraph (b) there shall be inserted the words and

(c)in subsection (3) after the words “may at any time” there shall be inserted the words “, with the consent of the Secretary of State,”.

MiscellaneousE+W

F6850. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

F68S. 50 repealed (25.8.2000) by 2000 c. 6, ss. 165, 168(1), Sch. 12 Pt. I (with Sch. 11 paras. 1, 2)

F6951. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

F69S. 51 repealed (25.8.2000) by 2000 c. 6, ss. 165, 168(1), Sch. 12 Pt. I (with Sch. 11 paras. 1, 2)

52 Increased penalty for offence of indecency with children.E+W

In subsection (1) of section 1 of the M32Indecency with Children Act 1960 (indecent conduct towards young child), for the words “two years” there shall be substituted the words “ ten years ”.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C15S. 52 excluded (1.1.1998) by S.I. 1997/2200, art. 5(1)

Marginal Citations

SupplementalU.K.

53 Financial provisions.E+W

There shall be paid out of money provided by Parliament any increase attributable to this Act in the sums payable out of money so provided under any other Act.

54 General interpretation.E+W

(1)In this Act—

  • the 1933 Act” means the M33Children and Young Persons Act 1933;

  • the 1969 Act” means the M34Children and Young Persons Act 1969;

  • the 1973 Act” means the M35Powers of Criminal Courts Act 1973;

  • the 1980 Act” means the M36Magistrates’ Courts Act 1980;

  • the 1982 Act” means the M37Criminal Justice Act 1982;

  • the 1983 Act” means the M38Mental Health Act 1983;

  • the 1991 Act” means the M39Criminal Justice Act 1991.

  • [F70local probation board” means a local probation board established under section 4 of the Criminal Justice and Court Services Act 2000;]

F71(2). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(3)Where an offence is found to have been committed over a period of two or more days, or at some time during a period of two or more days, it shall be taken for the purposes of this Act to have been committed on the last of those days.

[F72(4)For the purposes of any provision of this Act which requires the determination of the age of a person by the court, his age shall be deemed to be that which it appears to the court to be after considering any available evidence.]

55 Minor and consequential amendments.E+W

(1)The enactments mentioned in Schedule 4 to this Act shall have effect subject to the amendments there specified, being minor amendments and amendments consequential on the provisions of this Act.

(2)For the purposes of any of those enactments as so amended—

F73(a). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(b)a sentence falls to be imposed under subsection (3A) of section 70 of the M40Army Act 1955 or the M41Air Force Act 1955 or subsection (1A) of section 42 of the M42Naval Discipline Act 1957 if it is required by that subsection [F74and] the court-martial is not of the opinion there mentioned.

Extent Information

E1This version of this provision extends to England and Wales only; a separate version has been created for Scotland and Northern Ireland only.

Textual Amendments

F74Word in s. 55(2)(b) substituted (E.W.) (30.9.1998) by 1998 c. 37, s. 106, Sch. 7 para. 54; S.I. 1998/2327, art. 2(1)(w).

Commencement Information

I6S. 55 wholly in force at 1.12.1999; S. 55 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 57(2); S. 55(1)(2)(b) (and 55(2)(a) for specified purposes) in force at 1.10.1997 by S.I. 1997/2200, art. 2(1); S. 55 in force at 1.12.1999 to the extent not already in force at 1.12.1999 by S.I. 1999/3096, art. 2(d)

Marginal Citations

55 Minor and consequential amendments.S+N.I.

(1)The enactments mentioned in Schedule 4 to this Act shall have effect subject to the amendments there specified, being minor amendments and amendments consequential on the provisions of this Act.

(2)For the purposes of any of those enactments as so amended—

F76(a). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(b)a sentence falls to be imposed under subsection (3A) of section 70 of the M48Army Act 1955 or the M49Air Force Act 1955 or subsection (1A) of section 42 of the M50Naval Discipline Act 1957 if it is required by that subsection in any case where the court-martial is not of the opinion there mentioned.

Extent Information

E2This version of this provision extends to Scotland and Northern Ireland only; a separate version has been created for England and Wales only.

Textual Amendments

Commencement Information

I8S. 55 wholly in force at 1.12.1999; S. 55 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 57(2); S. 55(1)(2)(b) (and 55(2)(a) for specified purposes) in force at 1.10.1997 by S.I. 1997/2200, art. 2(1); s. 55 in force to the extent not already in force at 1.12.1999 by S.I. 1999/3096, art. 2(d)

Marginal Citations

56 Transitional provisions, savings and repeals.U.K.

(1)The transitional provisions and savings contained in Schedule 5 to this Act shall have effect; but nothing in this subsection shall be taken as prejudicing the operation of sections 16 and 17 of the M43Interpretation Act 1978 (which relate to the effect of repeals).

(2)The enactments specified in Schedule 6 to this Act are hereby repealed to the extent specified in the third column of that Schedule.

Commencement Information

I7S. 56(1)(2) in force at 1.10.1997 for specified purposes by S.I. 1997/2200, art. 2(1)

Marginal Citations

57 Short title, commencement and extent.E+W

(1)This Act may be cited as the Crime (Sentences) Act 1997.

(2)This Act shall come into force on such day as the Secretary of State may by order made by statutory instrument appoint; and different days may be appointed for different purposes.

(3)Without prejudice to the provisions of Schedule 5 to this Act, an order under subsection (2) above may make such transitional provisions and savings as appear to the Secretary of State necessary or expedient in connection with any provision brought into force by the order.

(4)Subject to subsections (5) to (8) below, this Act extends to England and Wales only.

(5)The following provisions of this Act extend to Scotland, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands, namely—

(a)section 41 and Schedule 1; and

(b)section 56(2) and Schedule 6 so far as relating to the repeal of Part III of the M44Criminal Justice Act 1961.

(6)The following provisions of this Act extend to Scotland, namely—

(a)section 45;

(b)paragraphs 1 and 5 to 8 of Schedule 2 and section 42 so far as relating to those paragraphs;

(c)paragraphs 1 and 6 to 10 of Schedule 3 and section 48 so far as relating to those paragraphs;

(d)paragraph 16 of Schedule 4 to this Act and section 55 so far as relating to that paragraph; and

(e)paragraphs 9, 11 and 12 of Schedule 5 and section 56(1) so far as relating to those paragraphs.

(7)The following provisions of this Act extend to Northern Ireland, namely—

(a)paragraphs 1, 9 and 10 of Schedule 2 and section 42 so far as relating to those paragraphs;

(b)paragraphs 2, 3, 7 and 8 of Schedule 3 and section 48 so far as relating to those paragraphs; and

(c)paragraphs 10 and 12 of Schedule 5 and section 56(1) so far as relating to those paragraphs.

(8)Nothing in subsection (4) above affects the extent of this Act in so far as it—

(a)confers a power or imposes a duty on a court-martial or a Standing Civilian Court; or

(b)amends any provision of the M45Army Act 1955, the M46Air Force Act 1955 or the M47Naval Discipline Act 1957

[F75or the extent of Chapter II of Part II so far as it relates to sentences passed by a court-martial].

Subordinate Legislation Made

P1S. 57(2)(3): Power partly exercised (23.6.1997): 25.6.1997 appointed for specified provisions by S.I. 1997/1581 and (8.9.1997): 1.10.1997, 1.1.1998 and 1.3.1998 appointed for specified provisions by S.I. 1997/2200

S. 57(2)(3); Power partly exercised (17.11.1999); 1.12.1999 appointed for specified provisions by S.I. 1999/3096, art. 2

Textual Amendments

F75Words in s. 57(8) inserted (retrospectively) by 2000 c. 43, s. 74, Sch. 7 para. 142

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

Marginal Citations

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