C18C57Part 12Sentencing
Pt. 12 (ss. 142-305) modified (4.4.2005) by The Criminal Justice Act 2003 (Sentencing) (Transitory Provisions) Order 2005 (S.I. 2005/643), art. 3 (as amended (E.W.) (3.12.2012) by The Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012 (Consequential and Saving Provisions) Regulations 2012 (S.I. 2012/2824), regs. 1, 3(1) (with reg. 3(2)) and as amended (1.12.2020 immediately before the consolidation date (see 2020 c. 9, ss. 3, 5(2)(3) and 2020 c. 17, ss. 2, 416)) by Sentencing (Pre-consolidation Amendments) Act 2020 (c. 9), s. 5(2)(3), Sch. 2 para. 139; S.I. 2012/1236, reg. 2)
C1 Chapter 1General provisions about sentencing
Pt. 12 Ch. 1: power to amend conferred (30.11.2009) by Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008 (c. 4), ss. 4(3), 153; S.I. 2009/3074, art. 2(d)
Matters to be taken into account in sentencing
F275142Purposes of sentencing
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F275142APurposes etc. of sentencing: offenders under 18
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F275143Determining the seriousness of an offence
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F275144Reduction in sentences for guilty pleas
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F275145Increase in sentences for racial or religious aggravation
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F275146Increase in sentences for aggravation related to disability, sexual orientation or transgender identity
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General restrictions on community sentences
F275147Meaning of “community sentence” etc.
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F275148Restrictions on imposing community sentences
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F275149Passing of community sentence on offender remanded in custody
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F275150Community sentence not available where sentence fixed by law etc.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F275150ACommunity order available only for offences punishable with imprisonment or for persistent offenders previously fined
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F275151Community order or youth rehabilitation order for persistent offender previously fined
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General restrictions on discretionary custodial sentences
F275152General restrictions on imposing discretionary custodial sentences
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F275153Length of discretionary custodial sentences: general provision
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General limit on magistrates' court’s power to impose imprisonment
F275154General limit on magistrates' court’s power to impose imprisonment
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
155Consecutive terms of imprisonment
1
Section 133 of the Magistrates' Courts Act 1980 (consecutive terms of imprisonment) is amended as follows.
2
In subsection (1), for F476“the words from “the longest” to “being imposed” there is substituted “
65 weeks
”
.
3
Subsection (2) is omitted.
4
In subsection (3) for “the preceding subsections” there is substituted “
subsection (1) above
”
.
Procedural requirements for imposing community sentences and discretionary custodial sentences
F276156Pre-sentence reports and other requirements
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F276157Additional requirements in case of mentally disordered offender
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F276158Meaning of “pre-sentence report”
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Disclosure of pre-sentence reports etc
F276159Disclosure of pre-sentence reports
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F276160Other reports of local probation boards , providers of probation services and members of youth offending teams
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Pre-sentence drug testing
F276161Pre-sentence drug testing
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Surcharges
F276161ACourt’s duty to order payment of surcharge
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F276161BAmount of surcharge
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Fines
F276162Powers to order statement as to offender’s financial circumstances
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F276163General power of Crown Court to fine offender convicted on indictment
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F276164Fixing of fines
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F276165Remission of fines
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Savings for power to mitigate etc
F276166Savings for powers to mitigate sentences and deal appropriately with mentally disordered offenders
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Sentencing and allocation guidelines
167The Sentencing Guidelines Council
F1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
168Sentencing Guidelines Council: supplementary provisions
F2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
169The Sentencing Advisory Panel
F3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
170Guidelines relating to sentencing and allocation
F4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
171Functions of Sentencing Advisory Panel in relation to guidelines
F5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
172Duty of court to have regard to sentencing guidelines
F6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
173Annual report by Council
F7. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Duty of court to explain sentence
F374174Duty to give reasons for and to explain effect of sentence
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Publication of information by Secretary of State
I1175Duty to publish information about sentencing
In section 95 of the Criminal Justice Act 1991 (c. 53) (information for financial and other purposes) in subsection (1) before the “or” at the end of paragraph (a) there is inserted—
aa
enabling such persons to become aware of the relative effectiveness of different sentences—
i
in preventing re-offending, and
ii
in promoting public confidence in the criminal justice system;
Interpretation of Chapter
F277176Interpretation of Chapter 1
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chapter 2Community orders: offenders aged 16 or over
F277177Community orders
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F277178Power to provide for court review of community orders
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F277179Breach, revocation or amendment of community order
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F277180Transfer of community orders to Scotland or Northern Ireland
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chapter 3F51Suspended sentence orders
Pt. 12 Ch. 3 heading substituted (3.12.2012) by Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012 (c. 10), s. 151(1), Sch. 9 para. 3 (with s. 68(7)); S.I. 2012/2906, art. 2(g)
Prison sentences of less than 12 months
F49181Prison sentences of less than 12 months
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F49182Licence conditions
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Intermittent custody
F49183Intermittent custody
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F49184Restrictions on power to make intermittent custody order
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F49185Intermittent custody: licence conditions
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F49186Further provisions relating to intermittent custody
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Further provision about custody plus orders and intermittent custody orders
F49187Revocation or amendment of order
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F49188Transfer of custody plus orders and intermittent custody orders to Scotland or Northern Ireland
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Suspended sentences
F278189Suspended sentences of imprisonment
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F278190Imposition of requirements by suspended sentence order
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F278191Power to provide for review of suspended sentence order
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F278192Periodic reviews of suspended sentence order
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F278193Breach, revocation or amendment of suspended sentence order, and effect of further conviction
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F278194Transfer of suspended sentence orders to Scotland or Northern Ireland
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interpretation of Chapter
F278195Interpretation of Chapter 3
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
C36C2C3 Chapter 4Further provisions about orders under Chapters 2 and 3
Pt. 12 Ch. 4 applied (with modifications) (8.12.2008) by Children Act 1989 (c. 41), Sch. A1 paras. 1-3 (as inserted by the Children and Adoption Act 2006 (c. 20), ss. 4(2), 17, Sch. 1); S.I. 2008/2870, art. 2(2)(c) (as amended (1.2.2015) by Offender Rehabilitation Act 2014 (c. 11), ss. 18(12), 22(1) (with Sch. 7 para. 7); S.I. 2015/40, art. 2(p))
Pt. 12 Ch. 4 modified (28.3.2009 for certain purposes, otherwise 31.10.2009) by Armed Forces Act 2006 (c. 52), ss. 178(3)(4), 196(1), 383; S.I. 2009/812, art. 3 (with transitional provisions in S.I. 2009/1059); S.I. 2009/1167, art. 4
Pt. 12 Ch. 4 extended (28.3.2009 for certain purposes, otherwise 31.10.2009) by Armed Forces Act 2006 (c. 52), ss. 182(4)-(6), 383 (subject to s. 183) (as amended (11.12.2013) by Crime and Courts Act 2013 (c. 22), s. 61(2), Sch. 16 para. 33(3) (with Sch. 16 para. 35); S.I. 2013/2981, art. 2(e)); S.I. 2009/812, art. 3 (with transitional provisions in S.I. 2009/1059); S.I. 2009/1167, art. 4
Pt. 12 Ch. 4 excluded (28.3.2009 for certain purposes, otherwise 31.10.2009) by Armed Forces Act 2006 (c. 52), ss. 201, 383; S.I. 2009/812, art. 3 (with transitional provisions in S.I. 2009/1059); S.I. 2009/1167, art. 4
Introductory
F278196Meaning of “relevant order” etc
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F278197Meaning of “the responsible officer”
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F278198Duties of responsible officer
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Requirements available in case of all offenders
F278199Unpaid work requirement
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F278200Obligations of person subject to unpaid work requirement
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F278200ARehabilitation activity requirement
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F278201Activity requirement
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F278202Programme requirement
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F278203Prohibited activity requirement
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F278204Curfew requirement
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F278205Exclusion requirement
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F278206Residence requirement
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F278206AForeign travel prohibition requirement
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F278207Mental health treatment requirement
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F278208Mental health treatment at place other than that specified in order
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F278209Drug rehabilitation requirement
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F278210Drug rehabilitation requirement: provision for review by court
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F278211Periodic review of drug rehabilitation requirement
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F278212Alcohol treatment requirement
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F278212AAlcohol abstinence and monitoring requirement
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F278213Supervision requirement
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Requirements available only in case of offenders aged under 25
F278214Attendance centre requirement
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Electronic monitoring
F278215Electronic monitoring requirement
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F278215AData from electronic monitoring: code of practice
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Provisions applying to relevant orders generally
F278216Local justice area to be specified in relevant order
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F278217Requirement to avoid conflict with religious beliefs, etc
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F278218Availability of arrangements in local area
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F278219Provision of copies of relevant orders
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F278220Duty of offender to keep in touch with responsible officer
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F278220ADuty to obtain permission before changing residence
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Powers of Secretary of State
I2221Provision of attendance centres
1
The Secretary of State may continue to provide attendance centres.
2
In this Part “attendance centre” means a place at which offenders F428... may be required to attend and be given under supervision appropriate occupation or instruction in pursuance of—
a
attendance centre requirements of relevant orders, or
F8aa
attendance centre requirements of youth rehabilitation orders, within F375the meaning given by section 173 of the Sentencing Code,
b
attendance centre orders under section 60 of F376the PCC(S)A 2000,
F9c
default orders under section 300 of this Act, or
d
youth default orders under section 39 of the Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008.
3
F4274
In this section “relevant order” means—
a
an order under section 177(1) (community order) or 189(1) (suspended sentence order);
b
a relevant order within the meaning given by section 397 of the Sentencing Code, made in respect of an offence of which the offender was convicted before the day on which paragraph 5 of Schedule 13 to the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 came into force.
F279222Rules
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F279223Power to amend limits
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chapter 5Dangerous offenders
Interpretation
F279224Meaning of “specified offence” etc.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Life sentences
F279224ALife sentence for second listed offence
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F279225Life sentence ... for serious offences
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F279226Detention for life ... for serious offences committed by those under 18
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F57Extended sentences
Cross-heading in Pt. 12 Ch. 5 inserted (3.12.2012) by Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012 (c. 10), s. 151(1), Sch. 19 para. 18; S.I. 2012/2906, art. 2(q)
F279226AExtended sentence for certain violent, sexual or terrorism offences: persons 18 or over
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F279226BExtended sentence for certain violent, sexual or terrorism offences: persons under 18
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F279227Extended sentence for certain violent or sexual offences: persons 18 or over
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F279228Extended sentence for certain violent or sexual offences: persons under 18
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F279229The assessment of dangerousness
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
I3230Imprisonment or detention for public protection: release on licence
Schedule 18 (release of prisoners serving sentences of imprisonment or detention for public protection) shall have effect.
Supplementary
F274231Appeals where previous convictions set aside
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F274232Certificates of convictions for purposes of sections 225 and 227
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F274232ACertificates of conviction
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F274233Offences under service law
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F274234Determination of day when offence committed
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F274235Detention under sections 226, 226B and 228
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F274236Conversion of sentences of detention into sentences of imprisonment
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
CHAPTER 5AOther offenders of particular concern
F274236ASpecial custodial sentence for certain offenders of particular concern
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
C16C23C50C49C58Chapter 6F50 Release, licencesF219, supervision and recall
Pt. 12 Ch. 6 heading substituted (3.12.2012) by Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012 (c. 10), s. 151(1), Sch. 14 para. 16; S.I. 2012/2906, art. 2(l)
Word in Pt. 12 Ch. 6 heading inserted (1.2.2015) by Offender Rehabilitation Act 2014 (c. 11), s. 22(1), Sch. 3 para. 15 (with Sch. 7 para. 2); S.I. 2015/40, art. 2(u)
Pt. 12 Ch. 6 applied to any person serving a sentence for an offence committed before 4 April 2005 (whenever that sentence was or is imposed) by Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012 (c. 10), ss. 121(1), 151(1); S.I. 2012/2906, art. 2(d)
Pt. 12 Ch. 6 applied (1.2.2015) by Offender Rehabilitation Act 2014 (c. 11), s. 22(1), Sch. 7 para. 2(a); S.I. 2015/40, art. 2(x)
Pt. 12 Ch. 6 modified (1.12.2020) by Sentencing Act 2020 (c. 17), s. 245(1)(2)(c), 416(1) (with ss. 2, 245(3), 398(1), 406, Sch. 27); S.I. 2020/1236, reg. 2
Pt. 12 Ch. 6 modified (1.12.2020) by Sentencing Act 2020 (c. 17), s. 244(1)(2)(c), 416(1) (with ss. 2, 244(3), 398(1), 406, Sch. 27); S.I. 2020/1236, reg. 2
Pt. 12 Ch. 6 applied (29.6.2021) by 1984 c. 47, Sch. para. 2(3B) (as inserted by Counter Terrorism and Sentencing Act 2021 (c. 11), s. 50(2)(r), Sch. 11 para. 2)
Preliminary
I4237Meaning of “fixed-term prisoner” F10etc
1
In this Chapter “fixed-term prisoner” means—
a
a person serving a sentence of imprisonment for a determinate term, or
b
F210and “fixed-term sentence” means a sentence falling within paragraph (a) or (b).
C4F111B
In this Chapter—
a
references to a sentence of imprisonment include such a sentence passed by a service court;
F429aa
references to a sentence of detention under section 262 of the Sentencing Code include a sentence of detention in a young offender institution under section 210B of the Armed Forces Act 2006;
b
references to a sentence of detention under F292section 91 of the PCC(S)A 2000 or section 250 of the Sentencing Code include a sentence of detention under section 209 of the Armed Forces Act 2006;
F65ba
references to a sentence under section 226A of this Act F287or section 266 or 279 of the Sentencing Code include a sentence under that section passed as a result of section 219A of the Armed Forces Act 2006;
bb
references to a sentence under section 226B of this Act F288or section 254 of the Sentencing Code include a sentence under that section passed as a result of section 221A of the Armed Forces Act 2006;
c
d
references to a sentence under section 228 of this Act include a sentence under that section passed as a result of section 222 of that ActF230, and
e
references to a sentence under section 236A of this Act F291or section 265 or 278 of the Sentencing Code include a sentence under that section passed as a result of section 224A of that Act.
1C
2
In this Chapter, unless the context otherwise requires, “prisoner” includes a person serving a sentence falling within subsection (1)(b); and “prison” includes any place where a person serving such a sentence is liable to be detained.
F643
Power of court to recommend licence conditions
F353C50C49238C50C49Power of court to recommend licence conditions for certain prisoners
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
I5239C50C49The Parole Board
1
The Parole Board is to continue to be, by that name, a body corporate and as such is—
a
to be constituted in accordance with this Chapter, and
b
to have the functions conferred on it by this Chapter in respect of fixed-term prisoners and by Chapter 2 of Part 2 of the Crime (Sentences) Act 1997 (c. 43) (in this Chapter referred to as “the 1997 Act”) in respect of life prisoners within the meaning of that Chapter.
2
It is the duty of the Board to advise the Secretary of State with respect to any matter referred to it by him which is to do with the early release or recall of prisoners.
3
The Board must, in dealing with cases as respects which it makes recommendations under this Chapter or under Chapter 2 of Part 2 of the 1997 Act, consider—
a
any documents given to it by the Secretary of State, and
b
any other oral or written information obtained by it;
and if in any particular case the Board thinks it necessary to interview the person to whom the case relates before reaching a decision, the Board may authorise one of its members to interview him and must consider the report of the interview made by that member.
4
The Board must deal with cases as respects which it gives directions under this Chapter or under Chapter 2 of Part 2 of the 1997 Act on consideration of all such evidence as may be adduced before it.
5
Without prejudice to subsections (3) and (4), the Secretary of State may make rules with respect to the proceedings of the Board, including proceedings authorising cases to be dealt with by a prescribed number of its members or requiring cases to be dealt with at prescribed times.
F4305A
Rules under subsection (5) may, in particular, make provision—
a
requiring or permitting the Board to make provisional decisions;
b
about the circumstances—
i
in which the Board must or may reconsider such decisions;
ii
in which such decisions become final;
c
conferring power on the Board to set aside a decision or direction that is within subsection (5B),
and any such provision may relate to cases referred to the Board under this Chapter or under Chapter 2 of Part 2 of the 1997 Act.
5B
The following are within this subsection—
a
a direction given by the Board for, or a decision made by it not to direct, the release of a prisoner which the Board determines it would not have given or made but for an error of law or fact, or
b
a direction given by the Board for the release of a prisoner which the Board determines it would not have given if—
i
information that was not available to the Board when the direction was given had been so available, or
ii
a change in circumstances relating to the prisoner that occurred after the direction was given had occurred before it was given.
5C
Provision made by virtue of subsection (5A)(c)—
a
may not confer power on the Board to set aside a direction for the release of a prisoner at any time when the prisoner has already been released pursuant to that direction, but
b
may make provision for the suspension of any requirement under this Chapter or under Chapter 2 of Part 2 of the 1997 Act for the Secretary of State to give effect to a direction of the Board to release a prisoner, pending consideration by the Board as to whether to set it aside.
6
The Secretary of State may also give to the Board directions as to the matters to be taken into account by it in discharging any functions under this Chapter or under Chapter 2 of Part 2 of the 1997 Act; and in giving any such directions the Secretary of State must have regard to—
a
the need to protect the public from serious harm from offenders, and
b
the desirability of preventing the commission by them of further offences and of securing their rehabilitation.
7
Schedule 19 shall have effect with respect to the Board.
Effect of remand in custodyF17or on bail subject to certain types of condition
Words in s. 240 cross-heading inserted (3.11.2008) by Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008 (c. 4), ss. 21(3), 153; S.I. 2008/2712, art. 2, Sch. para. 1 (subject to arts. 3, 4)
F72240C16C50C49Crediting of periods of remand in custody: terms of imprisonment and detention
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
240ZAC50C49F58Time remanded in custody to count as time served: terms of imprisonment F421or detention and detention and training orders
1
This section applies where—
a
an offender is serving a term of imprisonment in respect of an offence, and
b
the offender has been remanded in custody (within the meaning given by section 242) in connection with the offence or a related offence.
F4321A
This section also applies where—
a
a court, on or after the day on which Schedule 16 to the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 came into force, makes a detention and training order in respect of an offender for an offence, and
b
the offender concerned has been remanded in custody in connection with the offence or a related offence.
1B
In this section any reference to a “sentence”, in relation to an offender, is to—
a
a term of imprisonment being served by the offender as mentioned in subsection (1)(a), or
b
a detention and training order made in respect of the offender as mentioned in subsection (1A)(a).
2
It is immaterial for F434the purposes of subsection (1)(b) or (1A)(b) whether, for all or part of the period during which the offender was remanded in custody, the offender was also remanded in custody in connection with other offences (but see subsection (5)).
3
The number of days for which the offender was remanded in custody in connection with the offence or a related offence is to count as time served by the offender as part of the sentence.
But this is subject to subsections (4) to (6).
4
If, on any day on which the offender was remanded in custody, the offender was also detained in connection with any other matter, that day is not to count as time served.
5
A day counts as time served—
a
in relation to only one sentence, and
b
only once in relation to that sentence.
6
A day is not to count as time served as part of any F213automatic release period served by the offender (see section 255B(1)).
F3466A
Where a court has made a declaration under section 327 of the Sentencing Code in relation to the offender in respect of the offence, this section applies to days specified under subsection (3) of that section as if they were days for which the offender was remanded in custody in connection with the offence or a related offence.
7
For the purposes of this section a suspended sentence—
a
is to be treated as a sentence of imprisonment when it takes effect under F348paragraph 13(1)(a) or (b) of Schedule 16 to the Sentencing Code, and
b
is to be treated as being imposed by the order under which it takes effect.
8
In this section “related offence” means an offence, other than the offence for which the sentence is imposed (“offence A”), with which the offender was charged and the charge for which was founded on the same facts or evidence as offence A.
F4338A
Subsection (9) applies in relation to an offender who is sentenced to two or more consecutive sentences or sentences which are wholly or partly concurrent if—
a
the sentences were imposed on the same occasion, or
b
where they were imposed on different occasions, the offender has not been released during the period beginning with the first and ending with the last of those occasions.
9
For the purposes of subsections (3) and (5), the sentences are to be treated as a single sentence.
10
The reference in subsection (4) to detention in connection with any other matter does not include remand in custody in connection with another offence but includes—
a
detention pursuant to any custodial sentence;
b
committal in default of payment of any sum of money;
c
committal for want of sufficient distress to satisfy any sum of money;
d
committal for failure to do or abstain from doing anything required to be done or left undone.
11
This section applies to a determinate sentence of detention under section 91 or 96 F347of the PCC(S)A 2000, under section 250, F380252A, 254, 262, 265 F399, 266 or 268A of the Sentencing Code or under section F81226A, 226B, 227F249, 228 or 236A of this Act as it applies to an equivalent sentence of imprisonment.
C50C49C40C52240AC50C49F18F52Time remanded on bail to count towards time served: terms of imprisonment F422or detention and detention and training orders
1
F295Subsection (2) applies where—
a
b
the offender was remanded on bail by a court in course of or in connection with proceedings for the offence, or any related offence, after the coming into force of section 21 of the Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008, and
c
the offender's bail was subject to a qualifying curfew condition and an electronic monitoring condition (“the relevant conditions”).
C5C6C72
Subject to F74subsections (3A) and (3B), the court must direct that the credit period is to count as time served by the offender as part of the sentence.
F296F733
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F2933ZA
Subsection (3ZB) applies where—
a
an offender is serving a term of imprisonment in respect of an offence, and
b
the court has made a declaration under section 325 of the Sentencing Code specifying a credit period in relation to the sentence.
F4313ZAA
Subsection (3ZB) also applies where—
a
a court, on or after the day on which Schedule 16 to the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 came into force, makes a detention and training order in respect of an offender for an offence, and
b
the court has made a declaration under section 325 of the Sentencing Code specifying a credit period in relation to the order.
3ZAB
In this section any reference to a “sentence”, in relation to an offender, is to—
a
a term of imprisonment being served by the offender as mentioned in subsection (3ZA)(a), or
b
a detention and training order made in respect of the offender as mentioned in subsection (3ZAA)(a).
3ZB
Subject to subsections (3A) and (3B), the credit period is to count as time served by the offender as part of the sentence.
3A
A day of the credit period counts as time served—
a
in relation to only one sentence, and
b
only once in relation to that sentence.
3B
A day of the credit period is not to count as time served as part of any F211automatic release period served by the offender (see section 255B(1)).
F2978
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F769
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F7610
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
11
F77Subsections (7) to (9) and (11) of section 240ZA apply for the purposes of this section as they apply for the purposes of that section but as if—
12
In this section—
F79“curfew requirement” means a requirement (however described) to remain at one or more specified places for a specified number of hours in any given day, provided that the requirement is imposed by a court or the Secretary of State and arises as a result of a conviction;
“electronic monitoring condition” means any electronic monitoring requirements imposed under section 3(6ZAA) of the Bail Act 1976 for the purpose of securing the electronic monitoring of a person's compliance with a qualifying curfew condition;
“qualifying curfew condition” means a condition of bail which requires the person granted bail to remain at one or more specified places for a total of not less than 9 hours in any given day; F80...
F80. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
I6C8241C16C50C49Effect of F53section 240ZA or direction under section 240AF281or under section 325 of the Sentencing Code on release on licence
1
In determining for the purposes of this Chapter F85... whether a person F83to whom section 240ZA applies or a direction under section 240A F349or under section 325 of the Sentencing Code relates —
a
has served, or would (but for his release) have served, a particular proportion of his sentence, or
b
has served a particular period,
F131A
In subsection (1) the reference to F82section 240ZA includes section 246 of the Armed Forces Act 2006.
F862
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
I7242C50C49Interpretation of F54sections 240ZAF14, 240A and 241
1
For the purposes of F54sections 240ZAF14, 240A and 241, the definition of “sentence of imprisonment” in section 305 applies as if for the words from the beginning of the definition to the end of paragraph (a) there were substituted—
“sentence of imprisonment” does not include a committal—
a
in default of payment of any sum of money, other than one adjudged to be paid on a conviction,
and references in those sections to sentencing an offender to imprisonment, and to an offender’s sentence, are to be read accordingly.
C92
References in F54sections 240ZA and 241 to an offender’s being remanded in custody are references to his being—
a
remanded in or committed to custody by order of a court,
C46b
remanded F87to youth detention accommodation under section 91(4) of the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012, or
c
remanded, admitted or removed to hospital under section 35, 36, 38 or 48 of the Mental Health Act 1983 (c. 20).
F4353
In sections 240ZA and 240A, “detention and training order” has the meaning given by section 233 of the Sentencing Code.
F88C473
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
I8C10243C50C49Persons extradited to the United Kingdom
1
A fixed-term prisoner is an extradited prisoner for the purposes of this section if—
a
he was tried for the offence in respect of which his sentence was imposed F15or he received that sentence—
i
after having been extradited to the United Kingdom, and
ii
without having first been restored or had an opportunity of leaving the United Kingdom, and
b
he was for any period kept in custody while awaiting his extradition to the United Kingdom as mentioned in paragraph (a)F301, and
c
the court has specified under section 327(3) of the Sentencing Code the number of days for which the prisoner was so kept in custody.
F302F892
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2A
Section 240ZA applies to days specified under F303section 327(3) of the Sentencing Code as if they were days for which the prisoner was remanded in custody in connection with the offence or a related offence.
F163
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F59Unconditional release
S. 243A and cross-heading inserted (3.12.2012) by Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012 (c. 10), ss. 111(1), 151(1) (with Sch. 15); S.I. 2012/2906, art. 2(d)
C19C20243ADuty to release F217certain prisoners serving less than 12 months
F1991
This section applies to a fixed-term prisoner if—
a
the prisoner is serving a sentence which is for a term of 1 day, or
b
the prisoner—
i
is serving a sentence which is for a term of less than 12 months, and
ii
is aged under 18 on the last day of the requisite custodial period.
1A
This section also applies to a fixed-term prisoner if—
a
the prisoner is serving a sentence which is for a term of less than 12 months, and
b
the sentence was imposed in respect of an offence committed before the day on which section 1 of the Offender Rehabilitation Act 2014 came into force.
F2641B
But this section does not apply to a prisoner to whom section 247A applies.
2
As soon as a prisoner to whom this section applies has served the requisite custodial period for the purposes of this section, it is the duty of the Secretary of State to release that person unconditionally.
F4132A
Subsection (2) does not apply if—
a
the prisoner’s case has been referred to the Board under section 244ZB, or
b
a notice given to the prisoner under subsection (4) of that section is in force.
3
For the purposes of this section “the requisite custodial period” is—
a
F200in relation to a person serving one sentence, one-half of the sentence, and
b
in relation to a person serving two or more concurrent or consecutive sentences, the period determined under sections 263(2) and F436264(2B) or (2E).
4
This section is subject to—
a
section 256B (supervision of young offenders after release), and
b
paragraph 8 of Schedule 20B (transitional cases).
Release on licence
I9244C50C49C58Duty to release prisoners F420not subject to special provision for release
1
As soon as a fixed-term prisoner, other than a prisoner to whom section F95243AF250, F438244ZA, 244AF98, 246AF266, 247 or 247A applies, has served the requisite custodial period F96for the purposes of this section, it is the duty of the Secretary of State to release him on licence under this section.
F4141ZA
Subsection (1) does not apply if—
a
the prisoner’s case has been referred to the Board under section 244ZB, or
b
a notice given to the prisoner under subsection (4) of that section is in force.
F901A
Subsection (1) does not apply if the prisoner has been released on licence under section 246 F201or 248 and recalled under section 254 (provision for the release of such persons being made by sections 255B and 255C).
F972
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3
F93For the purposes of this section “the requisite custodial period” means—
F92b
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F92c
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F914
This section is subject to paragraphs 5, 6, 8, 25 and 28 of Schedule 20B (transitional cases).
244ZAF423Release on licence of certain violent or sexual offenders
1
As soon as a fixed-term prisoner to whom this section applies has served the requisite custodial period for the purposes of this section, it is the duty of the Secretary of State to release the prisoner on licence under this section.
2
This section applies to a prisoner who—
a
is serving a fixed-term sentence within subsection (4), (5) or (6),
b
is not a prisoner to whom section 244A, 246A or 247A applies, and
c
has not been released on licence (provision for the release of persons recalled under section 254 being made by sections 255B and 255C).
3
Subsection (1) does not apply if—
a
the prisoner’s case has been referred to the Board under section 244ZB, or
b
a notice given to the prisoner under subsection (4) of that section is in force.
4
A fixed-term sentence is within this subsection if it—
a
is a sentence of—
i
imprisonment, or
ii
detention under section 96 of the PCC(S)A 2000 or section 262 of the Sentencing Code,
b
is for a term of 7 years or more,
c
was imposed on or after 1 April 2020, and
d
was imposed in respect of an offence—
i
that is specified in Part 1 or 2 of Schedule 15, and
ii
for which a sentence of life imprisonment could have been imposed (in the case of an offender aged 21 or over) at the time when the actual sentence was imposed.
5
A fixed-term sentence is within this subsection if it—
a
is a sentence of imprisonment or a sentence of detention under section 262 of the Sentencing Code,
b
is for a term of at least 4 years but less than 7 years,
c
was imposed on or after the day on which section 130 of the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 came into force, and
d
was imposed in respect of an offence within subsection (7).
6
A fixed-term sentence is within this subsection if it—
a
is a sentence of detention under section 250 of the Sentencing Code,
b
is for a term of 7 years or more,
c
was imposed on or after the day on which section 130 of the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 came into force, and
d
was imposed in respect of an offence within subsection (7).
7
An offence is within this subsection if—
a
it is specified in any of the following paragraphs of Part 1 of Schedule 15—
i
paragraph 1 (manslaughter);
ii
paragraph 4 (soliciting murder);
iii
paragraph 6 (wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm);
iv
paragraph 64 (ancillary offences), so far as it relates to an offence listed in paragraph 1, 4 or 6;
v
paragraph 65 (inchoate offences in relation to murder), or
b
it is an offence—
i
that is specified in Part 2 of that Schedule (sexual offences), and
ii
for which a sentence of life imprisonment could have been imposed (in the case of an offender aged 21 or over) at the time when the actual sentence was imposed.
8
For the purposes of this section “the requisite custodial period” means—
a
in relation to a prisoner serving one sentence, two-thirds of the prisoner’s sentence, and
b
in relation to a prisoner serving two or more concurrent or consecutive sentences, the period determined under sections 263(2) and 264(2B) or (2E).
244ZBF412Referral of high-risk offenders to Parole Board in place of automatic release
1
This section applies to a prisoner who—
a
would (but for anything done under this section and ignoring any possibility of release under section 246 or 248) be, or become, entitled to be released on licence under section 243A(2), 244(1) or 244ZA(1), and
b
is (or will be) aged 18 or over on the first day on which the prisoner would be so entitled.
2
For the purposes of this section, the Secretary of State is of the requisite opinion if the Secretary of State believes on reasonable grounds that the prisoner would, if released, pose a significant risk to members of the public of serious harm occasioned by the commission of any of the following offences—
a
murder;
b
specified offences, within the meaning of section 306 of the Sentencing Code.
3
If the Secretary of State is of the requisite opinion, the Secretary of State may refer the prisoner’s case to the Board.
4
Before referring the prisoner’s case to the Board, the Secretary of State must notify the prisoner in writing of the Secretary of State’s intention to do so (and the reference may be made only if the notice is in force).
5
6
A notice given under subsection (4) must explain—
b
why the Secretary of State is of the requisite opinion, and
c
the prisoner’s right to make representations (see subsection (12)).
7
A notice given under subsection (4)—
a
takes effect at whichever is the earlier of—
i
the time when it is received by the prisoner, and
ii
the time when it would ordinarily be received by the prisoner, and
b
remains in force until—
i
the Secretary of State refers the prisoner’s case to the Board under this section, or
ii
the notice is revoked.
8
The Secretary of State—
a
may revoke a notice given under subsection (4), and
b
must do so if the Secretary of State is no longer of the requisite opinion.
9
If a notice given under subsection (4) is in force and the prisoner would but for the notice have become entitled as mentioned in subsection (1)(a)—
a
the prisoner may apply to the High Court on the ground that the prisoner’s release has been delayed by the notice for longer than is reasonably necessary in order for the Secretary of State to complete the referral of the prisoner’s case to the Board, and
b
the High Court, if satisfied that that ground is made out, must by order revoke the notice.
10
At any time before the Board disposes of a reference under this section, the Secretary of State—
a
may rescind the reference, and
b
must do so if the Secretary of State is no longer of the requisite opinion.
11
If the reference is rescinded, the prisoner is no longer to be treated as one whose case has been referred to the Board under this section (but this does not have the effect of reviving the notice under subsection (4)).
12
The prisoner may make representations to the Secretary of State about the referral, or proposed referral, of the prisoner’s case at any time after being notified under subsection (4) and before the Board disposes of any ensuing reference under this section.
But the Secretary of State is not required to delay the referral of the prisoner’s case in order to give an opportunity for such representations to be made.
244ZCProceedings following reference under section 244ZB
1
This section applies to a prisoner whose case has been referred to the Parole Board under section 244ZB.
2
If, in disposing of that reference or any subsequent reference of the prisoner’s case to the Board under this subsection, the Board does not direct the prisoner’s release, it is the duty of the Secretary of State to refer the prisoner’s case to the Board again no later than the first anniversary of the disposal.
3
It is the duty of the Secretary of State to release the prisoner on licence as soon as—
a
the prisoner has served the requisite custodial period, and
b
the Board has directed the release of the prisoner under this section.
4
5
The Board must not subsequently give a direction under subsection (3) unless—
a
the Secretary of State has referred the prisoner’s case to the Board under subsection (2), and
b
the Board is satisfied that it is no longer necessary for the protection of the public that the prisoner should be confined.
6
244AC50C49C58F234Release on licence of prisoners serving sentence under F282section 278 of the Sentencing Code etc
1
2
The Secretary of State must refer P's case to the Board—
a
as soon as P has served the requisite custodial period, and
b
where there has been a previous reference of P's case to the Board under this subsection and the Board did not direct P's release, not later than the second anniversary of the disposal of that reference.
3
It is the duty of the Secretary of State to release P on licence under this section as soon as—
a
P has served the requisite custodial period, and
b
the Board has directed P's release under this section.
4
The Board must not give a direction under subsection (3) unless—
a
the Secretary of State has referred P's case to the Board, and
b
the Board is satisfied that it is not necessary for the protection of the public that P should be confined.
5
It is the duty of the Secretary of State to release P on licence under this section as soon as P has served the appropriate custodial term, unless P has previously been released on licence under this section and recalled under section 254 (provision for the release of such persons being made by sections 255A to 255C).
6
For the purposes of this section—
“the appropriate custodial term” means the term determined as such by the court under section 236A F352or under section 265 or 278 of the Sentencing Code;
“the requisite custodial period” means—
- a
in relation to a person serving one sentence F439imposed before the day on which section 131 of the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 came into force, one-half of the appropriate custodial term,
- aa
F440in relation to a person serving one sentence imposed on or after that day, two-thirds of the appropriate custodial term, and
- b
in relation to a person serving two or more concurrent or consecutive sentences, the period determined under sections 263(2) and F441264(2D).
- a
F99245C50C49C58Restrictions on operation of section 244(1) in relation to intermittent custody prisoners
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
I10C50C49C48246C50C49C58Power to release prisoners on licence before required to do so
1
Subject to subsections (2) to (4), the Secretary of State may—
a
F111b
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2
Subsection (1)(a) does not apply in relation to a prisoner unless—
a
the length of the requisite custodial period is at least 6 weeks, F19and
b
he has served—
i
at least 4 weeks of that period, and
ii
at least one-half of that period.
F1133
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4
Subsection (1) does not apply where—
a
F109aa
the sentence is for a term of 4 years or more,
F268ab
the prisoner is one to whom section 247A applies,
b
the sentence is for an offence under section 1 of the Prisoners (Return to Custody) Act 1995 (c. 16),
c
the prisoner is subject to a hospital order, hospital direction or transfer direction under section 37, 45A or 47 of the Mental Health Act 1983 (c. 20),
d
the sentence was imposed by virtue of paragraph 9(1)(b) or (c) or 10(1)(b) or (c) of Schedule 8 F334, or paragraph 10(5)(c) or (d) or 11(2)(c) or (d) of Schedule 10 to the Sentencing Code, in a case where the prisoner has failed to comply with a curfew requirement of a community order,
e
the prisoner is subject to the notification requirements of Part 2 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003 (c. 42),
f
the prisoner is liable to removal from the United Kingdom,
F415fa
the prisoner’s case has been referred to the Board under section 244ZB,
fb
a notice given to the prisoner under subsection (4) of that section is in force,
g
F224ga
the prisoner has at any time been released on licence under section 34A of the Criminal Justice Act 1991 and has been recalled to prison under section 38A(1)(a) of that Act (and the revocation of the licence has not been cancelled under section 38A(3) of that Act);
h
the prisoner has been released on licence under section 248 during the currency of the sentence, and has been recalled to prison under section 254, F178...
F110ha
the prisoner has at any time been returned to prison under section 40 of the Criminal Justice Act 1991 or section 116 of F333the PCC(S)A 2000, or
i
in the case of a prisoner F107to whom section 240ZA applies or a direction under section 240A F331or under section 325 of the Sentencing Code relates, the interval between the date on which the sentence was passed and the date on which the prisoner will have served the requisite custodial period is less than 14 days F108... .
F1004ZA
Where subsection (4)(aa) applies to a prisoner who is serving two or more terms of imprisonment, the reference to the term of the sentence is—
a
if the terms are partly concurrent, a reference to the period which begins when the first term begins and ends when the last term ends;
b
if the terms are to be served consecutively, a reference to the aggregate of the terms.
F204A
In subsection (4)—
a
the reference in paragraph (d) to a community order includes a service community order or overseas community order under the Armed Forces Act 2006; and
b
the reference in paragraph (i) to F117section 240ZA includes section 246 of that Act.
5
The Secretary of State may by order—
a
amend the number of days for the time being specified in subsection (1)(a) F118... or (4)(i),
b
amend the number of weeks for the time being specified in subsection (2)(a) or (b)(i), and
c
amend the fraction for the time being specified in subsection (2)(b)(ii) F119... .
6
In this section—
F102. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
“the requisite custodial period” in relation to a person serving any sentence F103... , has the meaning given by F105paragraph (a) or (b) of section 243A(3) or (as the case may be) paragraph (a) F103... or (d) of section 244(3);
F104. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F101“term of imprisonment” includes a determinate sentence of detention under section 91 or 96 of F330the PCC(S)A 2000, under section 250, 254, 262, 265, 266, 278 or 279 of the Sentencing Code or under section F106226A, 226B, 227 F223, 228 or 236A of this Act.
246AC50C49C58F60Release on licence of prisoners serving extended sentence under F283section 254, 266 or 279 of the Sentencing Code etc
1
2
It is the duty of the Secretary of State to release P on licence under this section as soon as P has served the requisite custodial period for the purposes of this section F238if—
a
the sentence was imposed before the coming into force of section 4 of the Criminal Justice and Courts Act 2015,
b
the appropriate custodial term is less than 10 years, and
c
the sentence was not imposed in respect of an offence listed in Parts 1 to 3 of Schedule 15B or in respect of offences that include one or more offences listed in those Parts of that Schedule.
3
F237In any other case, it is the duty of the Secretary of State to release P on licence in accordance with subsections (4) to (7).
4
The Secretary of State must refer P's case to the Board—
a
as soon as P has served the requisite custodial period, and
b
where there has been a previous reference of P's case to the Board under this subsection and the Board did not direct P's release, not later than the second anniversary of the disposal of that reference.
5
It is the duty of the Secretary of State to release P on licence under this section as soon as—
a
P has served the requisite custodial period, and
b
the Board has directed P's release under this section.
6
The Board must not give a direction under subsection (5) unless—
a
the Secretary of State has referred P's case to the Board, and
b
the Board is satisfied that it is no longer necessary for the protection of the public that P should be confined.
F3786A
Sections 246B and 246C contain provision that relates to the Board's function of giving directions under subsection (5) for the release of P.
7
It is the duty of the Secretary of State to release P on licence under this section as soon as P has served the appropriate custodial term, unless P has previously been released on licence under this section and recalled under section 254 (provision for the release of such persons being made by section 255C).
8
For the purposes of this section—
“appropriate custodial term” means the term determined as such by the court under section 226A or 226B F341or under section 254, 266 or 279 of the Sentencing Code (as appropriate);
“the requisite custodial period” means—
- a
in relation to a person serving one sentence, two-thirds of the appropriate custodial term, and
- b
in relation to a person serving two or more concurrent or consecutive sentences, the period determined under sections 263(2) and F442264(2B), (2D) or (2E).
- a
246BC58F377Manslaughter: prisoner's non-disclosure of information
1
The Board must comply with this section when making a public protection decision about a prisoner if—
a
the prisoner's sentence was passed for manslaughter;
b
the Board does not know where and how the victim's remains were disposed of; and
c
the Board believes that the prisoner has information about where, or how, the victim's remains were disposed of (whether the information relates to the actions of the prisoner or any other individual) which the prisoner has not disclosed to the Board (“the prisoner's non-disclosure”).
2
When making the public protection decision about the prisoner, the Board must take into account—
a
the prisoner's non-disclosure; and
b
the reasons, in the Board's view, for the prisoner's non-disclosure.
3
This section does not limit the matters which the Board must or may take into account when making a public protection decision.
4
In subsection (1)(a) the reference to a sentence includes a sentence passed before the coming into force of section 2 of the Prisoners (Disclosure of Information About Victims) Act 2020.
5
In this section, in relation to a prisoner—
“public protection decision” means the decision, made under section 246A(6)(b) for the purposes of section 246A(5), as to whether the Board is satisfied that it is no longer necessary for the protection of the public that the prisoner should be confined;
“victim” means the victim of the offence for which the prisoner's sentence was passed;
and a reference to the victim's remains being disposed of includes the remains being left at the location where the victim died.
246CC58F377Indecent images: prisoner's non-disclosure of information
1
The Board must comply with this section when making a public protection decision about a prisoner if—
a
the prisoner's sentence was passed for—
i
an offence of taking an indecent photograph of a child, or
ii
a relevant offence of making an indecent pseudo-photograph of a child;
b
the Board does not know the identity of the child who is the subject of the relevant indecent image; and
c
the Board believes that the prisoner has information about the identity of the child who is the subject of the relevant indecent image which the prisoner has not disclosed to the Board (“the prisoner's non-disclosure”).
2
When making the public protection decision about the prisoner, the Board must take into account—
a
the prisoner's non-disclosure; and
b
the reasons, in the Board's view, for the prisoner's non-disclosure.
3
This section does not limit the matters which the Board must or may take into account when making a public protection decision.
4
In subsection (1)(a), the reference to a sentence includes a sentence passed before the coming into force of section 2 of the Prisoners (Disclosure of Information About Victims) Act 2020.
5
For the purposes of this section, an offence is—
a
an “offence of taking an indecent photograph of a child” if it is an offence under section 1(1)(a) of the Protection of Children Act 1978 of taking an indecent photograph of a child;
b
a “relevant offence of making an indecent pseudo-photograph of a child” if—
i
it is an offence under section 1(1)(a) of the Protection of Children Act 1978 of making an indecent pseudo-photograph of a child, and
ii
the Board believes that an image of a real child was or may have been used in the making of the pseudo-photograph;
and, in the application of this section to a relevant offence of making an indecent pseudo-photograph of a child, the references in subsection (1)(b) and (c) to the child who is the subject of the relevant indecent image are references to the real child.
6
In this section—
“public protection decision”, in relation to a prisoner, means the decision, made under section 246A(6)(b) for the purposes of section 246A(5), as to whether the Board is satisfied that it is no longer necessary for the protection of the public that the prisoner should be confined;
“relevant indecent image” means—
- a
the photograph to which an offence of taking an indecent photograph of a child relates, or
- b
the pseudo-photograph to which a relevant offence of making an indecent pseudo-photograph of a child relates.
- a
I11247C50C49C58Release on licence of prisoner serving extended sentence under section 227 or 228
1
This section applies to a prisoner who is serving an extended sentence imposed under section 227 or 228F270, other than a prisoner to whom section 247A applies.
2
As soon as—
b
F22. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
it is the duty of the Secretary of State to release him on licence.
3
F23. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4
F24. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5
F25. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6
F26. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F2407
In this section—
“the appropriate custodial term” means the period determined by the court as the appropriate custodial term under section 227 or 228;
“the requisite custodial period” means—
- a
in relation to a person serving one sentence, one-half of the appropriate custodial term, and
- b
in relation to a person serving two or more concurrent or consecutive sentences, the period determined under sections 263(2) and F443264(2B) or (2E).
- a
F1208
In its application to a person serving a sentence imposed before 14 July 2008, this section is subject to the modifications set out in paragraph 15 of Schedule 20B (transitional cases).
247AC50C49C58F265Restricted eligibility for release on licence of terrorist prisoners
1
This section applies to a prisoner (a “terrorist prisoner”) who—
a
is serving a fixed-term sentence imposed (whether before or after this section comes into force) in respect of an offence within subsection (2), and
b
has not been released on licence.
2
An offence is within this subsection (F383whenever it was committed) if—
F401a
it is specified in Part 1 or 2 of Schedule 19ZA (terrorism offences punishable with imprisonment for life or for more than two years),
F384b
it is a service offence as respects which the corresponding civil offence is so specified, or
c
it was determined to have a terrorist connection.
F4002A
Subsections (3) to (5) apply unless the terrorist prisoner's sentence was imposed—
a
under section 226A or 226B or under section 254, 266, 268A, 279 or 282A of the Sentencing Code (extended sentence or serious terrorism sentence for dangerous offenders),
b
on or after the day on which section 27 of the Counter-Terrorism and Sentencing Act 2021 comes into force, and
c
in respect of an offence that—
i
is specified in Part 1 of Schedule 19ZA (terrorism offences punishable with imprisonment for life),
ii
is a service offence as respects which the corresponding civil offence is so specified,
iii
is specified in Part 3 of that Schedule (other offences punishable with imprisonment for life) and was determined to have a terrorist connection, or
iv
is a service offence as respects which the corresponding civil offence is so specified, and was determined to have a terrorist connection.
3
It is the duty of the Secretary of State to refer the case of a terrorist prisoner to the Board—
a
as soon as the prisoner has served the requisite custodial period, and
b
where there has been a previous reference of the prisoner's case to the Board under this subsection and the Board did not direct the prisoner's release, no later than the second anniversary of the disposal of that reference.
4
It is the duty of the Secretary of State to release a terrorist prisoner on licence as soon as—
a
the prisoner has served the requisite custodial period, and
b
the Board has directed the release of the prisoner under this section.
5
The Board must not give a direction under subsection (4) unless—
a
the Secretary of State has referred the terrorist 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.
6
7
It is the duty of the Secretary of State to release the terrorist prisoner on licence under this section as soon as the prisoner has served the appropriate custodial term (see sections 255B and 255C for provision about the re-release of a person who has been recalled under section 254).
F3857A
For the purposes of this section, an offence was determined to have a terrorist connection if it was—
a
determined to have a terrorist connection under—
i
section 69 of the Sentencing Code (including as applied by section 238(6) of the Armed Forces Act 2006),
ii
section 30 of the Counter-Terrorism Act 2008 (in the case of an offender sentenced in England and Wales before the Sentencing Code applied, or an offender sentenced in Northern Ireland but now subject to the provisions of this Chapter), or
iii
section 32 of that Act (in the case of a person sentenced for a service offence before the Sentencing Code applied), or
b
proved to have been aggravated by reason of having a terrorist connection under section 31 of the Counter-Terrorism Act 2008 (in the case of an offender sentenced in Scotland but now subject to the provisions of this Chapter).
8
For the purposes of this section—
“the appropriate custodial term”, in relation to a sentence imposed under section 226A, 226B, 227, 228 or 236A, F336or under section F382252A, 254, 265, 266, F403268A, 278, 279 or 282A of the Sentencing Code, means the term determined as such by the court under that provision;
“the requisite custodial period” means—
- a
in relation to a person serving one sentence imposed under section 226A, 226B, 227, 228, or 236A, F336or under section F382252A, 254, 265, 266, 278 or 279 of the Sentencing Code, two-thirds of the appropriate custodial term,
- b
in relation to a person serving one sentence of any other kind, two-thirds of the sentence, and
- c
in relation to a person serving two or more concurrent or consecutive sentences, the period determined under sections 263(2) and F444264(2B), (2D) or (2E);
- a
“service offence”, F386and “corresponding civil offence” have the same meanings as in the Counter-Terrorism Act 2008 (see section 95 of that Act).
9
For the purposes of this section, a reference of a terrorist prisoner's case to the Board disposed of before the day on which this section comes into force is to be treated as if it was made (and disposed of) under subsection (3) if—
a
it was made under section 244A(2)(b) and disposed of at a time when the prisoner had served the requisite custodial F387period (within the meaning of this section, not section 244A), or
b
it was made under section 246A(4).
10
Nothing in this section affects the duty of the Secretary of State to release a person whose release has been directed by the Board before this section comes into force.
F38810A
In the case of a prisoner to whom this section applies as a result of the amendments made by sub-paragraph (2) of paragraph 45 of Schedule 13 to the Counter-Terrorism and Sentencing Act 2021, the references in subsections (9) and (10) to the date on which this section comes into force are to be read as references to the date on which that sub-paragraph comes into force.
11
This section is subject to paragraphs 5, 17 and 19 of Schedule 20B (transitional cases).
I12248C50C49C58Power to release prisoners on compassionate grounds
1
The Secretary of State may at any time release a fixed-term prisoner on licence if he is satisfied that exceptional circumstances exist which justify the prisoner’s release on compassionate grounds.
F1212
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
I13249C50C49C58Duration of licence
1
F1221A
Where a prisoner to whom section 243A applies is released on licence, the licence shall, subject to any revocation under section 254 or 255, remain in force until the date on which, but for the release, the prisoner would have served one-half of the sentence.
This is subject to subsection (3).
F1292
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3
F1304
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F1235
This section is subject to paragraphs 17, 19 and 26 of Schedule 20B (transitional cases).
I14250C50C49C58Licence conditions
1
In this section—
a
“the standard conditions” means such conditions as may be prescribed for the purposes of this section as standard conditions, and
b
“prescribed” means prescribed by the Secretary of State by order.
F1372
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F1312A
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F1383
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4
Any licence under this Chapter in respect of a prisoner serving a sentence of imprisonment F134... (including F134... a sentence imposed under section F135226AF227, 227 or 236AF328or under section 278 F404, 279 or 282A of the Sentencing Code) or any sentence of detention under section 91 F132or 96 of F329the PCC(S)A 2000, under section 250, F390252A, 254, 262, 265 F405, 266 or 268A of the Sentencing Code or under section F136226A, 226B,F133227 F228, 228 or 236A of this Act—
a
must include the standard conditions,
F229aa
must include any electronic monitoring conditions required by an order under section 62A of the Criminal Justice and Court Services Act 2000, and
b
may include—
i
ii
such other conditions of a kind prescribed by the Secretary of State for the purposes of this paragraph as the Secretary of State may for the time being specify in the licence.
F3274A
In exercising any power under subsection (4)(b) in respect of an offender, the Secretary of State must have regard to any recommendation under section 328 of the Sentencing Code (power of court to recommend licence conditions where adult is sentenced to term of 12 months or more).
5
A licence under section 246 must also include a curfew condition complying with section 253.
F4455A
The Secretary of State must not—
a
include a condition referred to in subsection (4)(b)(ii) in a licence within subsection (5B), either on release or subsequently, or
b
vary or cancel any such condition included in such a licence,
unless the Board directs the Secretary of State to do so (and must, if the Board so directs, include, vary or cancel such a condition).
5B
A licence is within this subsection if it is granted to a relevant prisoner—
a
on their initial release in a case where that release is at the direction of the Board, or
b
on their release after recall to prison in a case where that release is at the direction of the Board (see sections 255B(5), 255C(5) and 256A(5)).
5C
In subsection (5B), “relevant prisoner” means a prisoner to whom section 244ZC, 244A, 246A, 247 or 247A applies (or applied) for the purposes of their initial release.
F3895BA
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F1396
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F2057
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8
In exercising his powers to prescribe standard conditions or the other conditions referred to in subsection (4)(b)(ii), the Secretary of State must have regard to the following purposes of the supervision of offenders while on licence under this Chapter—
a
the protection of the public,
b
the prevention of re-offending, and
c
securing the successful re-integration of the prisoner into the community.
F4469
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F140I15251C50C49C58Licence conditions on re-release of prisoner serving sentence of less than 12 months
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
I16252C50C49C58Duty to comply with licence conditions
F271
A person subject to a licence under this Chapter must comply with such conditions as may for the time being be specified in the licence.
F282
But where—
a
the licence relates to a sentence of imprisonment passed by a service court, F141and
F142b
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
c
the person is residing outside the British Islands,
the conditions specified in the licence apply to him only so far as it is practicable for him to comply with them where he is residing.
I17253C50C49C58Curfew condition to be included in licence under section 246F56, 255B or 255C
1
For the purposes of this Chapter, a curfew condition is a condition which—
a
requires the released person to remain, for periods for the time being specified in the condition, at a place for the time being so specified (which may be premises approved by the Secretary of State under F29section 13 of the Offender Management Act 2007 (c.21)), and
b
includes F241a requirement, imposed under section 62 of the Criminal Justice and Court Services Act 2000, to submit to electronic monitoring of his whereabouts during the periods for the time being so specified.
2
The curfew condition may specify different places or different periods for different days, but may not specify periods which amount to less than 9 hours in any one day (excluding for this purpose the first and last days of the period for which the condition is in force).
3
The curfew condition is to remain in force until the date when the released person would (but for his release) fall to be released F143unconditionally under section 243A or on licence under section 244.
F1444
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F2425
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6
Nothing in this section is to be taken to require the Secretary of State to ensure that arrangements are made for the electronic monitoring of released persons' whereabouts in any particular part of England and Wales.
Recall after release
I18254Recall of prisoners while on licence
1
The Secretary of State may, in the case of any prisoner who has been released on licence under this Chapter, revoke his licence and recall him to prison.
2
A person recalled to prison under subsection (1)—
a
may make representations in writing with respect to his recall, and
b
on his return to prison, must be informed of the reasons for his recall and of his right to make representations.
F1452A
The Secretary of State, after considering any representations under subsection (2)(a) or any other matters, may cancel a revocation under this section.
2B
The Secretary of State may cancel a revocation under subsection (2A) only if satisfied that the person recalled has complied with all the conditions specified in the licence.
2C
Where the revocation of a person's licence is cancelled under subsection (2A), the person is to be treated as if the recall under subsection (1) had not happened.
F303
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F304
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F305
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6
On the revocation of the licence of any person under this section, he shall be liable to be detained in pursuance of his sentence and, if at large, is to be treated as being unlawfully at large.
7
Nothing in F31this section applies in relation to a person recalled under section 255.
I19255Recall of prisoners released early under section 246
1
If it appears to the Secretary of State, as regards a person released on licence under section 246—
a
that he has failed to comply with F214the curfew condition included in the licence, or
b
that his whereabouts can no longer be electronically monitored at the place for the time being specified in the curfew condition included in his licence,
the Secretary of State may, if the curfew condition is still in force, revoke the licence and recall the person to prison under this section.
2
A person whose licence under section 246 is revoked under this section—
a
may make representations in writing with respect to the revocation, and
b
on his return to prison, must be informed of the reasons for the revocation and of his right to make representations.
3
The Secretary of State, after considering any representations under F146subsection (2)(a) or any other matters, may cancel a revocation under this section.
4
Where the revocation of a person’s licence is cancelled under subsection (3), the person is to be treated for the purposes of section 246 as if he had not been recalled to prison under this section.
5
On the revocation of a person’s licence under section 246, he is liable to be detained in pursuance of his sentence and, if at large, is to be treated as being unlawfully at large.
255ZAF235Offence of remaining unlawfully at large after recall
1
A person recalled to prison under section 254 or 255 commits an offence if the person—
a
has been notified of the recall orally or in writing, and
b
while unlawfully at large fails, without reasonable excuse, to take all necessary steps to return to prison as soon as possible.
2
A person is to be treated for the purposes of subsection (1)(a) as having been notified of the recall if—
a
written notice of the recall has been delivered to an appropriate address, and
b
a period specified in the notice has elapsed.
3
In subsection (2) “an appropriate address” means—
a
an address at which, under the person's licence, the person is permitted to reside or stay, or
b
an address nominated, in accordance with the person's licence, for the purposes of this section.
4
A person is also to be treated for the purposes of subsection (1)(a) as having been notified of the recall if—
a
the person's licence requires the person to keep in touch in accordance with any instructions given by an officer of a provider of probation services,
b
the person has failed to comply with such an instruction, and
c
the person has not complied with such an instruction for at least 6 months.
5
A person who is guilty of an offence under this section is liable—
a
on conviction on indictment to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 2 years or a fine (or both);
b
on summary conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding F482the general limit in a magistrates’ court or a fine (or both).
6
7
In relation to an offence committed before section 85 of the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012 comes into force, the reference in subsection (5)(b) to a fine is to be read as a reference to a fine not exceeding the statutory maximum.
F55Further release after recall
S. 255A-255C and crossheading substituted for s. 255A-255D (3.12.2012) by Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012 (c. 10), ss. 114(1), 151(1) (with Sch. 15); S.I. 2012/2906, art. 2(d)
F55255AC50C49Further release after recall: introductory
1
This section applies for the purpose of identifying which of sections 255B and 255C governs the further release of a person who has been recalled under section 254.
2
The Secretary of State must, on recalling a person other than an extended sentence prisoner F416, a serious terrorism prisoner or a prisoner whose case was referred to the Board under section 244ZB, consider whether the person is suitable for automatic release.
F1933
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F4864
A person is suitable for automatic release only if—
a
the person—
i
is aged 18 or over,
ii
is serving a sentence of less than 12 months,
iii
has not been recalled on account of being charged with a serious offence, and
iv
is not being managed at level 2 or 3, as specified in guidance for the time being issued under section 325(8), by a responsible authority under arrangements made under that section (arrangements for assessing etc risks posed by certain offenders), or
b
where paragraph (a) does not apply, the Secretary of State is satisfied that the person will not present a risk of serious harm to members of the public if released at the end of the automatic release period.
4A
For the purposes of subsection (4) “serious offence” means—
a
murder, or
b
an offence listed in Schedule 18 to the Sentencing Code.
5
The person must be dealt with—
a
in accordance with section 255B if suitable for automatic release;
b
in accordance with section 255C otherwise.
F194but that is subject, where applicable, to section 243A(2) (unconditional release).
6
For the purposes of this section, a person returns to custody when that person, having been recalled, is detained (whether or not in prison) in pursuance of the sentence.
C417
An “extended sentence prisoner” is a prisoner serving an extended sentence imposed under—
F338aa
section 254, 266 or 279 of the Sentencing Code, or
b
section 85 of F339the PCC(S)A 2000;
and paragraph (b) includes (in accordance with paragraph 1(3) of Schedule 11 to F339the PCC(S)A 2000) a reference to section 58 of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998.
F4067A
A “serious terrorism prisoner” is a prisoner serving a serious terrorism sentence imposed under section 268A or 282A of the Sentencing Code.
F1928
Automatic release” means release at the end of the automatic release period.
9
In the case of a person recalled under section 254 while on licence under a provision of this Chapter other than section 246, “the automatic release period” means—
a
where the person is serving a sentence of less than 12 months, the period of 14 days beginning with the day on which the person returns to custody;
b
where the person is serving a sentence of 12 months or more, the period of 28 days beginning with that day.
10
In the case of a person recalled under section 254 while on licence under section 246, “the automatic release period” means whichever of the following ends later—
a
the period described in subsection (9)(a) or (b) (as appropriate);
b
the requisite custodial period which the person would have served under section 243A or 244 but for the earlier release.
F55255BC50C49Automatic release
1
A prisoner who is suitable for automatic release (“P”) must—
a
on return to prison, be informed that he or she will be released under this section (subject to subsections (8) and (9)), and
b
at the end of F220the automatic release period (as defined in section 255A(9) and (10)), be released by the Secretary of State on licence under this Chapter (unless P is released before that date under subsection (2) or (5)).
2
The Secretary of State may, at any time after P is returned to prison, release P again on licence under this Chapter.
3
The Secretary of State must not release P under subsection (2) unless the Secretary of State is satisfied that it is not necessary for the protection of the public that P should remain in prison until the end of the period mentioned in subsection (1)(b).
4
If P makes representations under section 254(2) before the end of that period, the Secretary of State must refer P's case to the Board on the making of those representations.
F4474A
The Board must not give a direction for P’s release on a reference under subsection (4) unless the Board is satisfied that it is not necessary for the protection of the public that P should remain in prison until the end of the period mentioned in subsection (1)(b).
5
Where on a reference under subsection (4) the Board directs P's F448... release on licence under this Chapter, the Secretary of State must give effect to the direction.
6
Subsection (7) applies if P is recalled before the date on which P would (but for the earlier release) have served the requisite custodial period for the purposes of section 243A or (as the case may be) section 244.
7
Where this subsection applies—
a
if P is released under this section before that date, P's licence must include a curfew condition complying with section 253, and
b
P is not to be so released (despite subsections (1)(b) and (5)) unless the Secretary of State is satisfied that arrangements are in place to enable that condition to be complied with.
8
Subsection (9) applies if, after P has been informed that he or she will be released under this section, the Secretary of State receives further information about P (whether or not relating to any time before P was recalled).
9
If the Secretary of State determines, having regard to that and any other relevant information, that P is not suitable for automatic release—
a
the Secretary of State must inform P that he or she will not be released under this section, and
b
section 255C applies to P as if the Secretary of State had determined, on P's recall, that P was not suitable for automatic release.
F48710
Subsections (8) and (9) do not apply where P falls within section 255A(4)(a), unless the Secretary of State receives information that, after being recalled, P has been charged with a serious offence (within the meaning of section 255A(4A)).
F55255CC50C49F396Prisoners not suitable for automatic release
1
This section applies to a prisoner (“P”) F417—
a
whose suitability for automatic release does not have to be considered under section 255A(2), or
b
who is not considered suitable for automatic release.
2
The Secretary of State may, at any time after P is returned to prison, release P again on licence under this Chapter.
3
The Secretary of State must not release P under subsection (2) unless the Secretary of State is satisfied that it is not necessary for the protection of the public that P should remain in prison.
4
The Secretary of State must refer P's case to the Board—
a
if P makes representations under section 254(2) before the end of the period of 28 days beginning with the date on which P returns to custody, on the making of those representations, or
b
if, at the end of that period, P has not been released under subsection (2) and has not made such representations, at that time.
F4494A
The Board must not give a direction for P’s release on a reference under subsection (4) unless the Board is satisfied that it is not necessary for the protection of the public that P should remain in prison.
5
Where on a reference under subsection (4) the Board directs P's F450... release on licence under this Chapter, the Secretary of State must give effect to the direction.
6
Subsection (7) applies if P is recalled before the date on which P would (but for the earlier release) have served the requisite custodial period for the purposes of section 243A or (as the case may be) section 244.
7
Where this subsection applies—
a
if P is released under this section before that date, P's licence must include a curfew condition complying with section 253, and
b
P is not to be so released (despite subsection (5)) unless the Secretary of State is satisfied that arrangements are in place to enable that condition to be complied with.
8
For the purposes of this section, P returns to custody when P, having been recalled, is detained (whether or not in prison) in pursuance of the sentence.
F451256Review by the Board
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
256AC50C49F32Further review
F4521
This section applies to a person if—
a
there has been a previous reference of the person’s case to the Board under section 255C(4) or this section, and
b
the person has not been released.
1A
The Secretary of State must refer the person’s case back to the Board not later than the first anniversary of the most recent determination by the Board not to release the person (the “review date”).
1B
Subsection (1A) does not apply where the review date is 13 months or less before the date on which the person is required to be released by the Secretary of State.
2
The Secretary of State may, at any time before F454the review date, refer the person's case to the Board.
3
The Board may at any time recommend to the Secretary of State that F455the person’s case be referred under subsection (2).
F4534
The Board must not give a direction for a person’s release on a reference under subsection (1A) or (2) unless the Board is satisfied that it is not necessary for the protection of the public that the person should remain in prison.
5
Where on a reference under subsection (1A) or (2) the Board directs a person’s release on licence under this Chapter, the Secretary of State must give effect to the direction.
256AZAF424Release after recall where further sentence being served
1
This section applies where a person (“the offender”) is serving two or more terms of imprisonment.
2
Nothing in sections 255A to 256A requires the Secretary of State to release the offender in respect of any of the terms unless and until the Secretary of State is required to release the offender in respect of each of the others.
3
Nothing in sections 255A to 256A requires the Secretary of State to refer the offender’s case to the Board in respect of any of the terms unless and until the Secretary of State is required either—
a
to refer the offender’s case to the Board, or
b
to release the offender,
in respect of each of the others.
4
If the offender is released on licence under section 255B, 255C or 256A, the offender is to be on licence—
a
until the last date on which the offender is required to be on licence in respect of any of the terms, and
b
subject to such conditions as are required by this Chapter in respect of any of the sentences.
5
This section applies to a determinate sentence of detention under any of the following provisions as it applies to a term of imprisonment—
a
section 91 or 96 of the PCC(S)A 2000;
b
section 250, 252A, 254, 262, 265, 266 or 268A of the Sentencing Code;
c
section 226A, 226B, 227, 228 or 236A of this Act.
256AZBF425Power to change test for release following recall
1
The Secretary of State may by order change—
a
the test to be applied by the Secretary of State in deciding under section 255A whether a person is suitable for automatic release;
b
the test to be applied by the Secretary of State in deciding whether to release a person under section 255B(2) or 255C(2);
c
the test to be applied by the Board in deciding whether to give a direction for a person’s release when determining a reference under section 255B(4), 255C(4) or 256A(1A) or (2).
2
An order under subsection (1) may in particular—
a
apply to a person recalled before the day on which the order comes into force (as well as to a person recalled on or after that day);
b
amend this Chapter.
F475Release at the direction of the Board
S. 256AZC and cross-heading inserted (28.6.2022) by Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 (c. 32), ss. 139(2)(c), 208(1); S.I. 2022/520, reg. 5(o)
256AZCRelease at direction of Parole Board: timing
1
This section applies where the Board directs the release of a person on licence under this Chapter.
2
The Secretary of State must give effect to the direction of the Parole Board as soon as is reasonably practicable in all the circumstances including, in particular, the need to make arrangements in connection with any conditions that are to be included in the person’s licence under this Chapter.
3
The duty under subsection (2) is subject to provision made pursuant to section 239(5C)(b).
F181Supervision of offenders
S. 256AA and cross-heading inserted (1.2.2015) by Offender Rehabilitation Act 2014 (c. 11), ss. 2(2), 22(1) (with Sch. 7 para. 2); S.I. 2015/40, art. 2(b)
C26C27C25256AAC50C49Supervision after end of sentence of prisoners serving less than 2 years
1
This section applies where a person (“the offender”) has served a fixed-term sentence which was for a term of more than 1 day but less than 2 years, except where—
a
the offender was aged under 18 on the last day of the requisite custodial period (as defined in section 243A(3)),
b
the sentence was an extended sentence imposed under F343section 254, 266 or 279 of the Sentencing Code,
F271bb
section 247A applied to the offender in respect of the sentence, or
c
the sentence was imposed in respect of an offence committed before the day on which section 2(2) of the Offender Rehabilitation Act 2014 came into force.
C392
The offender must comply with the supervision requirements during the supervision period, except at any time when the offender is—
a
in legal custody,
b
subject to a licence under this Chapter or Chapter 2 of Part 2 of the 1997 Act, or
c
subject to DTO supervision.
C393
The supervision requirements are the requirements for the time being specified in a notice given to the offender by the Secretary of State (but see the restrictions in section 256AB).
C394
“The supervision period” is the period which—
a
begins on the expiry of the sentence, and
b
ends on the expiry of the period of 12 months beginning immediately after the offender has served the requisite custodial period (as defined in section 244(3)).
C395
The purpose of the supervision period is the rehabilitation of the offender.
C396
The Secretary of State must have regard to that purpose when specifying requirements under this section.
C397
The supervisor must have regard to that purpose when carrying out functions in relation to the requirements.
C398
In this Chapter, “the supervisor”, in relation to a person subject to supervision requirements under this section, means a person who is for the time being responsible for discharging the functions conferred by this Chapter on the supervisor in accordance with arrangements made by the Secretary of State.
C399
In relation to a person subject to supervision requirements under this section following a sentence of detention under F344section 250 of the Sentencing Code, the supervisor must be—
a
an officer of a provider of probation services, or
b
a member of the youth offending team established by the local authority in whose area the offender resides for the time being.
C3910
In relation to any other person, the supervisor must be an officer of a provider of probation services.
C3911
In this section “DTO supervision” means supervision under—
a
a detention and training order (including an order under section 211 of the Armed Forces Act 2006), or
b
an order under F345paragraph 3(2)(b) of Schedule 12 to the Sentencing Code (breach of supervision requirements of detention and training order).
12
This section has effect subject to section 264(3C)(b) and (3D).
C26C27C24C53C50C49256ABC50C49F182Supervision requirements under section 256AA
1
The only requirements that the Secretary of State may specify in a notice under section 256AA are—
a
a requirement to be of good behaviour and not to behave in a way which undermines the purpose of the supervision period;
b
a requirement not to commit any offence;
c
a requirement to keep in touch with the supervisor in accordance with instructions given by the supervisor;
d
a requirement to receive visits from the supervisor in accordance with instructions given by the supervisor;
e
a requirement to reside permanently at an address approved by the supervisor and to obtain the prior permission of the supervisor for any stay of one or more nights at a different address;
f
a requirement not to undertake work, or a particular type of work, unless it is approved by the supervisor and to notify the supervisor in advance of any proposal to undertake work or a particular type of work;
g
a requirement not to travel outside the British Islands, except with the prior permission of the supervisor or in order to comply with a legal obligation (whether or not arising under the law of any part of the British Islands);
h
a requirement to participate in activities in accordance with any instructions given by the supervisor;
i
a drug testing requirement (see section 256D);
j
a drug appointment requirement (see section 256E).
2
Where a requirement is imposed under subsection (1)(h), F354paragraph 5(4) to (9) of Schedule 9 to the Sentencing Code applies in relation to the requirement (reading references to the responsible officer as references to the supervisor).
3
Paragraphs (i) and (j) of subsection (1) have effect subject to the restrictions in sections 256D(2) and 256E(2).
C514
The Secretary of State may by order—
a
add requirements that may be specified in a notice under section 256AA,
b
remove or amend such requirements,
c
make provision about such requirements, including about the circumstances in which they may be imposed, and
d
make provision about instructions given for the purposes of such requirements.
5
An order under subsection (4) may amend this Act.
6
In this section “work” includes paid and unpaid work.
C26C27C28C54C50C49256ACC50C49F183Breach of supervision requirements imposed under section 256AA
1
Where it appears on information to a justice of the peace that a person has failed to comply with a supervision requirement imposed under section 256AA, the justice may—
a
issue a summons requiring the offender to appear at the place and time specified in the summons, or
b
if the information is in writing and on oath, issue a warrant for the offender's arrest.
2
Any summons or warrant issued under this section must direct the person to appear or be brought—
a
before a magistrates' court acting for the local justice area in which the offender resides, or
b
if it is not known where the person resides, before a magistrates' court acting for the same local justice area as the justice who issued the summons or warrant.
3
Where the person does not appear in answer to a summons issued under subsection (1)(a), the court may issue a warrant for the person's arrest.
4
If it is proved to the satisfaction of the court that the person has failed without reasonable excuse to comply with a supervision requirement imposed under section 256AA, the court may—
a
order the person to be committed to prison for a period not exceeding 14 days (subject to subsection (7)),
b
order the person to pay a fine not exceeding level 3 on the standard scale, or
5
F326Paragraph 10(3) of Schedule 9 to the Sentencing Code (obligation to impose electronic monitoring requirement) applies in relation to a supervision default order that imposes a curfew requirement as it applies in relation to a community order that imposes such a requirement.
6
If the court deals with the person under subsection (4), it must revoke any supervision default order which is in force at that time in respect of that person.
7
Where the person is under the age of 21—
a
an order under subsection (4)(a) in respect of the person must be for committal to a young offender institution instead of to prison, but
b
the Secretary of State may from time to time direct that a person committed to a young offender institution by such an order is to be detained in a prison or remand centre instead.
8
A person committed to prison or a young offender institution by an order under subsection (4)(a) is to be regarded as being in legal custody.
9
A fine imposed under subsection (4)(b) is to be treated, for the purposes of any enactment, as being a sum adjudged to be paid by a conviction.
10
In Schedule 19A (supervision default orders)—
a
Part 1 makes provision about requirements of supervision default orders, and
b
Part 2 makes provision about the breach, revocation and amendment of supervision default orders.
F32210A
Where a court deals with a person under this section, the criminal courts charge duty (see section 46 of the Sentencing Code) applies to the court.
11
A person dealt with under this section may appeal to the Crown Court againstF243—
a
the order made by the court F244under this section, and
b
an order made by the court under F323section 46 of the Sentencing Code (criminal courts charge) when dealing with the person under this section.
F215F61...
S. 256B cross-heading omitted (1.2.2015) by virtue of Offender Rehabilitation Act 2014 (c. 11), s. 22(1), Sch. 3 para. 19 (with Sch. 7 para. 2); S.I. 2015/40, art. 2(u)
Ss. 256B, 256C and cross-heading inserted (3.12.2012) by Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012 (c. 10), ss. 115, 151(1) (with Sch. 15); S.I. 2012/2906, art. 2(d)
C26256BC50C49F218Supervision after release of certain young offenders serving less than 12 months
F1861
This section applies where a person (“the offender”) is released under this Chapter if—
a
the person is, at the time of the release, serving a sentence of detention under F355section 250 of the Sentencing Code which is for a term of less than 12 months, and
b
the person is aged under 18 on the last day of the requisite custodial period (as defined in section 243A(3)).
1A
This section also applies where a person (“the offender”) is released under this Chapter if—
a
the person is, at the time of the release, serving a sentence of detention under F356section 250 or 262 of the Sentencing Code which is for a term of less than 12 months, and
b
the sentence was imposed in respect of an offence committed before the day on which section 1 of the Offender Rehabilitation Act 2014 came into force.
F2721B
But this section does not apply where a person (“the offender”) is released from a sentence in respect of which section 247A applied to the offender.
2
The offender is to be under the supervision of—
a
an officer of a provider of probation services,
b
a social worker of a local authority, or
c
F187... a member of the youth offending team.
3
Where the supervision is to be provided by an officer of a provider of probation services, the officer must be an officer acting in the local justice area in which the offender resides for the time being.
4
Where the supervision is to be provided by—
a
a social worker of a local authority, or
b
a member of a youth offending team,
the social worker or member must be a social worker of, or a member of a youth offending team established by, the local authority within whose area the offender resides for the time being.
5
The supervision period begins on the offender's release and ends three months later (whether or not the offender is detained under section 256C or otherwise during that period).
6
During the supervision period, the offender must comply with such requirements, if any, as may for the time being be specified in a notice from the Secretary of State.
7
The requirements that may be specified in a notice under subsection (6) include—
a
requirements F245to submit to electronic monitoring of the offender's compliance with any other requirements specified in the notice;
b
requirements F246to submit to electronic monitoring of the offender's whereabouts (otherwise than for the purpose of securing compliance with requirements specified in the notice);
F188c
where the offender is aged 18 or over—
i
drug testing requirements (see section 256D);
ii
drug appointment requirements (see section 256E).
F1857A
Paragraph (c)(i) and (ii) of subsection (7) have effect subject to the restrictions in sections 256D(2) and 256E(2).
F1898
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F1909
The Secretary of State may make rules about the requirements that may be imposed by virtue of subsection (7)(a) or (b).
F19110
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
C26256CC50C49Breach of supervision requirements F216imposed under section 256B
1
Where an offender is under supervision under section 256B and it appears on information to a justice of the peace that the offender has failed to comply with requirements under section 256B(6), the justice may—
a
issue a summons requiring the offender to appear at the place and time specified in the summons, or
b
if the information is in writing and on oath, issue a warrant for the offender's arrest.
2
Any summons or warrant issued under this section must direct the offender to appear or be brought—
a
before a court acting for the local justice area in which the offender resides, or
b
if it is not known where the offender resides, before a court acting for same local justice area as the justice who issued the summons or warrant.
3
Where the offender does not appear in answer to a summons issued under subsection (1)(a), the court may issue a warrant for the offender's arrest.
4
If it is proved to the satisfaction of the court that the offender has failed to comply with requirements under section 256B(6), the court may—
a
order the offender to be detained, in prison or such youth detention accommodation as the Secretary of State may determine, for such period, not exceeding 30 days, as the court may specify, or
b
F221order the offender to pay a fine not exceeding level 3 on the standard scale.
5
An offender detained in pursuance of an order under subsection (4)(a) is to be regarded as being in legal custody.
6
A fine imposed under subsection (4)(b) is to be treated, for the purposes of any enactment, as being a sum adjudged to be paid by a conviction.
7
An offender may appeal to the Crown Court against any order made under subsection (4)(a) or (b).
8
In this section “court” means—
a
if the offender has attained the age of 18 years at the date of release, a magistrates' court other than a youth court;
b
if the offender is under the age of 18 years at the date of release, a youth court.
C26C29C30C55C50C49256DC50C49F184Drug testing requirements
1
“Drug testing requirement”, in relation to an offender subject to supervision under this Chapter, means a requirement that, when instructed to do so by the supervisor, the offender provide a sample mentioned in the instruction for the purpose of ascertaining whether the offender has a specified Class A drug or a specified Class B drug in his or her body.
2
A drug testing requirement may be imposed on an offender subject to supervision under this Chapter only if—
a
the Secretary of State is satisfied of the matters in subsection (3), and
b
the requirement is being imposed for the purpose of determining whether the offender is complying with any other supervision requirement.
3
Those matters are—
a
that the misuse by the offender of a specified class A drug or a specified class B drug caused or contributed to an offence of which the offender has been convicted or is likely to cause or contribute to the commission of further offences by the offender, and
b
that the offender is dependent on, or has a propensity to misuse, a specified class A drug or a specified class B drug.
4
An instruction given for the purpose of a drug testing requirement must be given in accordance with guidance given from time to time by the Secretary of State.
5
The Secretary of State may make rules regulating the provision of samples in accordance with such an instruction.
6
In this section, “specified Class A drug” and “specified Class B drug” have the same meaning as in Part 3 of the Criminal Justice and Court Services Act 2000.
C26C31C32C56C50C49256EC50C49Drug appointment requirements
1
“Drug appointment requirement”, in relation to an offender subject to supervision under this Chapter, means a requirement that the offender, in accordance with instructions given by the supervisor, attend appointments with a view to addressing the offender's dependency on, or propensity to misuse, a controlled drug.
2
A drug appointment requirement may be imposed on an offender subject to supervision under this Chapter only if—
a
the supervisor has recommended to the Secretary of State that such a requirement be imposed on the offender, and
b
the Secretary of State is satisfied of the matters in subsection (3).
3
Those matters are—
a
that the misuse by the offender of a controlled drug caused or contributed to an offence of which the offender has been convicted or is likely to cause or contribute to the commission of further offences by the offender,
b
that the offender is dependent on, or has a propensity to misuse, a controlled drug,
c
that the dependency or propensity requires, and may be susceptible to, treatment, and
d
that arrangements have been made, or can be made, for the offender to have treatment.
4
The requirement must specify—
a
the person with whom the offender is to meet or under whose direction the appointments are to take place, and
b
where the appointments are to take place.
5
The person specified under subsection (4)(a) must be a person who has the necessary qualifications or experience.
6
The only instructions that the supervisor may give for the purposes of the requirement are instructions as to—
a
the duration of each appointment, and
b
when each appointment is to take place.
7
For the purposes of this section, references to a requirement to attend an appointment do not include a requirement to submit to treatment.
8
In this section, “controlled drug” has the same meaning as in the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.
Additional days
I20257Additional days for disciplinary offences
1
Prison rules, that is to say, rules made under section 47 of the Prison Act 1952 (c. 52), may include provision for the award of additional days—
a
to fixed-term prisoners, or
b
conditionally on their subsequently becoming such prisoners, to persons on remand,
who (in either case) are guilty of disciplinary offences.
2
Where additional days are awarded to a fixed-term prisoner, or to a person on remand who subsequently becomes such a prisoner, and are not remitted in accordance with prison rules—
a
any period which he must serve before becoming entitled to or eligible for release under this Chapter,
b
any period which he must serve before he can be removed from prison under section 260, and
I34c
any period for which a licence granted to him under this Chapter remains in force,
is extended by the aggregate of those additional days.
Fine defaulters and contemnors
I21C17C17258Early release of fine defaulters and contemnors
1
This section applies in relation to a person committed to prison—
a
in default of payment of a sum adjudged to be paid by a conviction, or
b
for contempt of court or any kindred offence.
2
As soon as a person to whom this section applies has served one-half of the term for which he was committed, it is the duty of the Secretary of State to release him unconditionally.
F1492A
Subsection (2) is subject to paragraph 35 of Schedule 20B (transitional cases).
F2552B
Subsection (2) does not apply to a person within subsection (1)(a) if the sum in question is a sum of more than £10 million ordered to be paid under a confiscation order made under Part 2 of the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002.
2C
The Secretary of State may by order amend the amount for the time being specified in subsection (2B).
3
Where a person to whom this section applies is also serving one or more sentences of imprisonment, nothing in this section F150or in paragraph 35 of Schedule 20B requires the Secretary of State to release him until he is also required to release him in respect of that sentence or each of those sentences.
F1483A
4
The Secretary of State may at any time release unconditionally a person to whom this section applies if he is satisfied that exceptional circumstances exist which justify the person’s release on compassionate grounds.
Persons liable to removal from the United Kingdom
I22259Persons liable to removal from the United Kingdom
For the purposes of this Chapter a person is liable to removal from the United Kingdom if—
a
he is liable to deportation under section 3(5) of the Immigration Act 1971 (c. 77) and has been notified of a decision to make a deportation order against him,
b
he is liable to deportation under section 3(6) of that Act,
c
he has been notified of a decision to refuse him leave to enter the United Kingdom,
d
he is an illegal entrant within the meaning of section 33(1) of that Act, or
e
he is liable to removal under section 10 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 (c. 33).
259AF35Persons eligible for removal from the United Kingdom
1
For the purposes of this Chapter, to be “eligible for removal from the United Kingdom” a person must show, to the satisfaction of the Secretary of State, that the condition in subsection (2) is met.
2
The condition is that the person has the settled intention of residing permanently outside the United Kingdom if removed from prison under section 260.
3
The person must not be one who is liable to removal from the United Kingdom.
I23260Early removal of prisoners liable to removal from United Kingdom
F4561
Where a fixed-term prisoner is liable to removal from the United Kingdom, the Secretary of State may remove the prisoner from prison under this section at any time after the prisoner has served the minimum pre-removal custodial period (whether or not the Board has directed the prisoner’s release under this Chapter).
2
The minimum pre-removal custodial period is the longer of—
a
one half of the requisite custodial period, and
b
the requisite custodial period less F485545 days.
F2602C
F461Subsection (1) does do not apply in relation to a prisoner to whom section 247A applies.
F333
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F343A
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4
A prisoner removed from prison under this section—
a
is so removed only for the purpose of enabling the Secretary of State to remove him from the United Kingdom under powers conferred by—
i
Schedule 2 or 3 to the Immigration Act 1971, or
ii
section 10 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 (c. 33), and
F458b
so long as remaining in the United Kingdom, and in the event of a return to the United Kingdom after removal, is liable to be detained in pursuance of his sentence.
F4574A
Where a person has been removed from prison under this section, a day on which the person has not spent any part of the day in prison or otherwise detained in pursuance of their sentence is not, unless the Secretary of State otherwise directs, to be included—
a
when determining for the purposes of any provision of this Chapter how much of their sentence they have (or would have) served, or
b
when determining for the purposes of section 244ZC(2), 244A(2)(b) or 246A(4)(b) the date of an anniversary of a disposal of a reference of the person’s case to the Board (so that the anniversary is treated as falling x days after the actual anniversary, where x is the number of days on which the person has not spent any part of the day in prison or otherwise detained in pursuance of their sentence).
4B
Where—
a
before a prisoner’s removal from prison under this section their case had been referred to the Board under section 244ZB(3), 244ZC(2), 244A(2) or 246A(4), and
b
the person is removed from the United Kingdom before the Board has disposed of the reference,
the reference lapses upon the person’s removal from the United Kingdom (and paragraph 8 of Schedule 19B applies in the event of their return).
F4605
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6
The Secretary of State may by order—
F459a
amend the fraction for the time being specified in subsection (2)(a);
b
amend the time period for the time being specified in subsection (2)(b).
F2367
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F1528
Paragraphs 36 and 37 of Schedule 20B (transitional cases) make further provision about early removal of certain prisoners.
F2619
Subsection (2C) does not affect the continued liability to detention under subsection (4)(b) of a prisoner removed from prison under this section before subsection (2C) came into force and in such a case—
a
the “requisite custodial period” in subsection (4)(b) has the meaning given by section 247A(8), and
b
subsection (5) is to be read as including reference to section 247A.
261F462Removal under section 260 and subsequent return to UK: effect on sentence
Where a person—
a
has been removed from prison under section 260 on or after the day on which section 47 of the Nationality and Borders Act 2022 came into force,
b
has been removed from the United Kingdom following that removal from prison, and
c
returns to the United Kingdom,
this Chapter applies to the person with the modifications set out in Schedule 19B.
F153262Prisoners liable to removal from United Kingdom: modifications of Criminal Justice Act 1991
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Consecutive or concurrent terms
I24263Concurrent terms
1
This section applies where—
a
a person (“the offender”) has been sentenced F36. . . to two or more terms of imprisonment which are wholly or partly concurrent, and
b
the sentences were passed on the same occasion or, where they were passed on different occasions, the person has not been released under this Chapter at any time during the period beginning with the first and ending with the last of those occasions.
2
Where this section applies—
a
nothing in this Chapter requires the Secretary of State to release the offender in respect of any of the terms unless and until he is required to release him in respect of each of the others,
F464aza
nothing in this Chapter requires the Secretary of State to refer the offender’s case to the Board in respect of any of the terms unless and until the Secretary of State is required either—
i
to refer the offender’s case to the Board, or
ii
to release the offender,
in respect of each of the others,
F155aa
the offender's release is to be unconditional if section 243A so requires in respect of each of the sentences (and in any other case is to be on licence),
b
c
on and after his release under this Chapter F158(unless that release is unconditional) the offender is to be on licenceF163—
i
until the last date on which the offender is required to be on licence in respect of any of the terms, and
ii
subject to such conditions as are required by this Chapter in respect of any of the sentences.
F4632A
Where this section applies, nothing in section 260 authorises the Secretary of State to remove the offender from prison in respect of any of the terms unless and until that section authorises the Secretary of State to do so in respect of each of the others.
F1593
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4
F1545
This section is subject to paragraphs 21, 31 and 32 of Schedule 20B (transitional cases).
I25264Consecutive terms
1
This section applies where—
a
a person (“the offender”) has been sentenced to two or more terms of imprisonment which are to be served consecutively on each other, and
b
the sentences were passed on the same occasion or, where they were passed on different occasions, the person has not been released under this Chapter at any time during the period beginning with the first and ending with the last of those occasions, F165...
F165c
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F4652A
Subsection (2B) applies if each of the terms of imprisonment is subject to initial automatic release.
2B
Nothing in this Chapter requires the Secretary of State to release the offender until the offender has served a period equal to the aggregate of the length of the minimum custodial periods in each of the terms.
2C
Subsections (2D) and (2E) apply if at least one of the terms of imprisonment is subject to initial Parole Board referral.
2D
Nothing in this Chapter requires the Secretary of State to refer the offender’s case to the Board until the offender has served a period equal to the aggregate length of the minimum custodial periods in each of the terms.
2E
Nothing in this Chapter requires the Secretary of State to release the offender until—
a
the Board has directed the release of the offender, or
b
the offender has served a period equal to the aggregate length of—
i
the minimum custodial periods in each of the terms (if any) that is subject to initial automatic release, and
ii
the maximum custodial periods in each of the terms that is subject to initial Parole Board referral.
2F
For the purposes of subsections (2A) to (2E)—
a
a term of imprisonment is “subject to initial automatic release” if it is a sentence in respect of which—
i
section 243A(1), 244(1), 244ZA(1), 246A(2) or 247 applies to the offender, or
ii
section 247A applies, but subsections (3) to (5) of that section do not apply, to the offender;
b
a term of imprisonment is “subject to initial Parole Board referral” if it is a sentence in respect of which—
i
section 244ZC, 244A, 246A(3) to (7) or 247A(3) to (5) applies to the offender, or
ii
a notice under section 244ZB(4) is in force.
F2223B
The offender's release under this Chapter is to be unconditional if—
a
the aggregate length of the terms of imprisonment is less than 12 months, and
b
section 243A so requires in respect of each of the sentences,
but in any other case is to be on licence.
3C
If the offender is released on licence under this Chapter—
a
the offender is to be on licence, on and after the release, until the offender would, but for the release, have served a term equal in length to the aggregate length of the terms of imprisonment (but see section 264B);
b
the offender is to be subject to supervision requirements under section 256AA if (and only if)—
i
section 256AA so requires in respect of one or more of the sentences, and
ii
the aggregate length of the terms of imprisonment is less than 2 years.
3D
If the offender is subject to supervision requirements under section 256AA, the supervision period for the purposes of that section begins on the expiry of the period during which the offender is on licence by virtue of subsection (3C)(a).
3E
When the offender is released under this Chapter (whether unconditionally or on licence), the offender is to be subject to supervision requirements under section 256B if that section so requires in respect of one or more of the sentences.
F1664
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F1665
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F2476
a
in relation to an extended sentence imposed under section 226A or 226B F317or under section 254, 266 or 279 of the Sentencing Code, two-thirds of the appropriate custodial term determined by the court under that section,
b
in relation to an extended sentence imposed under section 227 or 228, one-half of the appropriate custodial term determined by the court under that section,
c
in relation to a sentence imposed under section 236A F319or under section 265 or 278 of the Sentencing CodeF471before the day on which section 131 of the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 came into force, one-half of the appropriate custodial term determined by the court under that section, and
F467ca
in relation to a sentence imposed under section 265 or 278 of the Sentencing Code on or after the day on which section 131 of the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 came into force, two-thirds of the appropriate custodial term determined by the court under that section,
F468cb
in relation to a sentence in respect of which section 244ZA applies to the offender, two-thirds of the sentence,
C38d
in relation to any other sentence, one-half of the sentence.
F2626A
In this section “F470minimum custodial period”, in the case of a sentence imposed on a person to whom section 247A applies, means—
F410za
in relation to a sentence within subsection (2A) of that section, the whole of the “appropriate custodial term” within the meaning of that section (see subsection (8) of that section),
a
in relation to an extended sentence F411(not being one to which paragraph (za) applies) imposed under section 226A, 226B, 227 or F320228 of this Act or section 254, 266 or 279 of the Sentencing Code, or a sentence imposed under section F321236A of this Act or section F393252A, 265 or 278 of that Code, two-thirds of the appropriate custodial term determined by the court under that section;
b
in relation to any other sentence, two-thirds of the sentence.
F4666B
In this section “maximum custodial period” means—
a
in relation to a sentence imposed under section 226A, 226B, 227, 228 or 236A of this Act or section 252A, 254, 265, 266, 278 or 279 of the Sentencing Code, the “appropriate custodial term” determined by the court under that section;
b
in relation to any other sentence, the term of the sentence.
7
This section applies to a determinate sentence of detention under section 91 F167or 96 of F318the PCC(S)A 2000, under section 250, F394252A, 254, 262, 265 F409, 266 or 268A of the Sentencing Code or under section F170226A, 226B,F168227 F248, 228 or 236A of this Act as it applies to a term of imprisonment F169... .
F1648
This section is subject to paragraphs 21, 22, 31, 32 and 33 of Schedule 20B (transitional cases).
F171264AConsecutive terms: intermittent custody
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
264AAF280Consecutive terms: detention and training orders
1
This section applies where, by virtue of section 237(4) of the Sentencing Code or section 106A(3)(b) of the Powers of Criminal Courts (Sentencing) Act 2000, a detention and training order made in the case of a person (“the offender”) who is subject to a relevant sentence of detention is to take effect at the time when the offender would otherwise be released under this Chapter.
F4721A
In a case where the detention and training order was made on or after the day on which section 159 of the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 came into force, section 246(1)(a) is to be read as if, instead of conferring a power to release the offender, it conferred a power to determine that the Secretary of State would, but for the detention and training order, have directed the offender’s release under that section.
2
Any direction in respect of the offender by the Parole Board under—
a
subsection (5)(b) of section 246A,
b
subsection (4)(b) of section 247A, or
c
sub-paragraph (3) of paragraph 15 of Schedule 20B,
is to be expressed as a direction that the Board would, but for the detention and training order, have directed the offender's release under that section F395or paragraph.
3
In this section—
a
references to a detention and training order include an order made under section 211 of the Armed Forces Act 2006, and
b
“relevant sentence of detention” has the meaning given by section 248(4) of the Sentencing Code.
C33C34C35264BF212Consecutive terms: supplementary
1
This section applies in a case in which section 264 applies where—
a
the offender is released on licence under this Chapter,
b
the aggregate length of the terms of imprisonment mentioned in section 264(1)(a) is less than 12 months, and
c
those terms include one or more terms of imprisonment (“short transitional terms”) which were imposed in respect of an offence committed before the day on which section 1 of the Offender Rehabilitation Act 2014 came into force, as well as one or more terms imposed in respect of an offence committed on or after that day.
2
The offender is to be on licence until the offender would, but for the release, have served a term equal in length to the aggregate of—
a
the custodial period in relation to each of the short transitional terms, and
b
the full length of each of the other terms.
3
In this section “custodial period” has the same meaning as in section 264.
Restriction on consecutive sentences for released prisoners
F359C50C49265Restriction on consecutive sentences for released prisoners
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Drug testing requirements
F172266Release on licence etc: drug testing requirements
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Supplemental
267Alteration by order of relevant proportion of sentence
The Secretary of State may by order provide that any reference in F173section 243A(3)(a), section 244(3)(a), section 247(2) or F259section 264(6)(d) to a particular proportion of a prisoner’s sentence is to be read as a reference to such other proportion of a prisoner’s sentence as may be specified in the order.
C21267AF62Application of Chapter 6 to pre-4 April 2005 cases
Schedule 20A (which modifies certain provisions of this Chapter as they apply to persons serving a sentence for an offence committed before 4 April 2005) has effect.
C22267BF63Modification of Chapter 6 in certain transitional cases
Schedule 20B (which modifies this Chapter so as to restate, with minor amendments, the effect of transitional provisions relating to the coming into force of this Chapter) has effect.
267CF426Fixed-term prisoners also serving life sentence
1
This section applies where a fixed-term prisoner is also serving one or more sentences by virtue of which the life sentence provisions apply to the offender.
2
Nothing in this Chapter requires the Secretary of State to release the prisoner unless the Secretary of State is also required by the life sentence provisions to release the prisoner.
3
Nothing in this Chapter requires the Secretary of State to refer the prisoner’s case to the Board unless the Secretary of State is also required by the life sentence provisions to—
a
refer the prisoner’s case to the Board, or
b
release the prisoner.
4
The reference in subsection (3)(a) to a requirement of the Secretary of State to refer a prisoner’s case to the Board does not include a requirement to do so under section 31A(3) of the 1997 Act.
5
6
In this section “the life sentence provisions” means Chapter 2 of Part 2 of the 1997 Act.
I26268Interpretation of Chapter 6
F1961
In this Chapter —
“the 1997 Act” means the Crime (Sentences) Act 1997 (c. 43);
“the Board” means the Parole Board;
F197“fixed-term prisoner” and “fixed-term sentence” have the meaning given by section 237(1) F37(as extended by section 237(1A));
F174. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F198“offender subject to supervision under this Chapter” means a person who is subject to supervision requirements under section 256AA or 256B;
“prison” and “prisoner” are to be read in accordance with section 237(2);
F198“supervision default order” means an order described in section 256AC(4)(c), whether made under that provision or under paragraph 9 of Schedule 19A;
F198“the supervision period”, in relation to an offender subject to supervision under this Chapter, has the meaning given in section 256AA or 256B (as appropriate);
F198“the supervisor”—
- (a)
in relation to an offender subject to supervision requirements under section 256AA, has the meaning given in that section, and
- (b)
in relation to an offender subject to supervision requirements under section 256B, means the person who provides supervision under that section;
- (a)
F174. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F174. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F2541A
In this Chapter, “the requisite custodial period” means F273(except where it has the meaning given by section 247A(8)) —
a
in relation to a person serving an extended sentence imposed under section 226A or 226B F360or under section 254, 266 or 279 of the Sentencing Code, the requisite custodial period for the purposes of section 246A;
b
in relation to a person serving an extended sentence imposed under section 227 or 228, the requisite custodial period for the purposes of section 247;
c
in relation to a person serving a sentence imposed under section 236A F361or under section 265 or 278 of the Sentencing Code, the requisite custodial period for the purposes of section 244A;
F419ca
in relation to a prisoner whose case has been referred to the Parole Board under section 244ZB, the requisite custodial period for the purposes of section 244ZC;
d
in relation to any other fixed-term prisoner, the requisite custodial period for the purposes of section 243A F473, 244 or 244ZA (as appropriate).
F1952
For the purposes of sections 243A(1A), 256AA(1), 256B(1A) and 264B(1), where an offence is found to have been committed over a period of 2 or more days, or at some time during a period of 2 or more days, it must be taken to have been committed on the last of those days.
Chapter 7Effect of life sentence
F362269Determination of minimum term in relation to mandatory life sentence
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F363270Duty to give reasons
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
271Appeals
1
In section 9 of the Criminal Appeal Act 1968 (c. 19) (appeal against sentence following conviction on indictment), after subsection (1) there is inserted—
1A
In subsection (1) of this section, the reference to a sentence fixed by law does not include a reference to an order made under subsection (2) or (4) of section 269 of the Criminal Justice Act 2003 in relation to a life sentence (as defined in section 277 of that Act) that is fixed by law.
2
In section 8 of the Courts-Martial (Appeals) Act 1968 (c. 20) (right of appeal from court-martial to Courts-Martial Appeal Court) after subsection (1) there is inserted—
1ZA
In subsection (1) above, the reference to a sentence fixed by law does not include a reference to an order made under subsection (2) or (4) of section 269 of the Criminal Justice Act 2003 in relation to a life sentence (as defined in section 277 of that Act) that is fixed by law.
272Review of minimum term on a reference by Attorney General
1
In section 36 of the Criminal Justice Act 1988 (c. 33) (reviews of sentencing) after subsection (3) there is inserted—
3A
Where a reference under this section relates to an order under subsection (2) of section 269 of the Criminal Justice Act 2003 (determination of minimum term in relation to mandatory life sentence), the Court of Appeal shall not, in deciding what order under that section is appropriate for the case, make any allowance for the fact that the person to whom it relates is being sentenced for a second time.
2
F38. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3
F38. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
273Life prisoners transferred to England and Wales
1
The Secretary of State must refer the case of any transferred life prisoner to the High Court for the making of one or more relevant orders.
2
In subsection (1) “transferred life prisoner” means a person -
a
on whom a court in a country or territory outside the British Islands has imposed one or more sentences of imprisonment or detention for an indeterminate period, and
b
who has been transferred to England and Wales after the commencement of this section in pursuance of—
i
an order made by the Secretary of State under section 2 of the Colonial Prisoners Removal Act 1884 (c. 31), or
ii
a warrant issued by the Secretary of State under the Repatriation of Prisoners Act 1984 (c. 47),
there to serve his sentence or sentences or the remainder of his sentence or sentences.
3
In subsection (1) “a relevant order” means F364a minimum term order or a whole life order under section 321 of the Sentencing Code.
4
In section 34(1) of the Crime (Sentences) Act 1997 (c. 43)
(meaning of “life prisoner” in Chapter 2 of Part 2 of that Act) at the end there is inserted “
and includes a transferred life prisoner as defined by section 273 of the Criminal Justice Act 2003
”
.
F395
The reference in subsection (2)(b) above to a person who has been transferred to England and Wales in pursuance of a warrant issued under the Repatriation of Prisoners Act 1984 includes a reference to a person who is detained in England and Wales in pursuance of a warrant under section 4A of that Act (warrant transferring responsibility for detention and release of offender).
274Further provisions about references relating to transferred life prisoners
1
A reference to the High Court under section 273 is to be determined by a single judge of that court without an oral hearing.
2
In relation to a reference under that section, any reference to “the court” F365in sections 321 to 323 of the Sentencing Code is to be read as a reference to the High Court.
3
A person in respect of whom a reference has been made under section 273 may with the leave of the Court of Appeal appeal to the Court of Appeal against the decision of the High Court on the reference.
4
Section 1(1) of the Administration of Justice Act 1960 (c. 65) (appeal to F40Supreme Court from decision of High Court in a criminal cause or matter) and section 18(1)(a) of the Supreme Court Act 1981 (c. 54) (exclusion of appeal from High Court to Court of Appeal in a criminal cause or matter) do not apply in relation to a decision to which subsection (3) applies.
5
The jurisdiction conferred on the Court of Appeal by subsection (3) is to be exercised by the criminal division of that court.
6
Section 33(3) of the Criminal Appeal Act 1968 (c. 19) (limitation on appeal from criminal division of Court of Appeal) does not prevent an appeal to the F40Supreme Court under this section.
7
In relation to appeals to the Court of Appeal or the F40Supreme Court under this section, the Secretary of State may make an order containing provision corresponding to any provision in the Criminal Appeal Act 1968 (subject to any specified modifications).
275Duty to release certain life prisoners
1
Section 28 of the Crime (Sentences) Act 1997 (c. 43) (duty to release certain life prisoners) is amended as follows.
2
For subsection (1A) there is substituted—
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.
3
In subsection (1B)(a)—
a
for the words from the beginning to “applies” there is substituted “
this section does not apply to him
”
, and
b
for the words from “such an order” to “appropriate stage” there is substituted “
a minimum term order has been made in respect of each of those sentences
”
.
4
After subsection (8) there is inserted—
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).
276Mandatory life sentences: transitional cases
Schedule 22 (which relates to the effect in transitional cases of mandatory life sentences) shall have effect.
F366277Interpretation of Chapter 7
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chapter 8Other provisions about sentencing
Deferment of sentence
F367278Deferment of sentence
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Power to include drug treatment and testing requirement in certain orders in respect of young offenders
I27279Drug treatment and testing requirement in action plan order or supervision order
F41. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Alteration of penalties for offences
280Alteration of penalties for specified summary offences
1
The summary offences listed in Schedule 25 are no longer punishable with imprisonment.
2
Schedule 26 (which contains amendments increasing the maximum term of imprisonment for certain summary offences from 4 months or less to 51 weeks) shall have effect.
3
This section does not affect the penalty for any offence committed before the commencement of this section.
C11281Alteration of penalties for other summary offences
1
Subsection (2) applies to any summary offence which—
a
is an offence under a relevant enactment,
b
is punishable with a maximum term of imprisonment of five months or less, and
c
is not listed in Schedule 25 or Schedule 26.
2
The Secretary of State may by order amend any relevant enactment so as to—
a
provide that any summary offence to which this subsection applies is no longer punishable with imprisonment, or
b
increase to 51 weeks the maximum term of imprisonment to which a person is liable on conviction of the offence.
3
An order under subsection (2) may make such supplementary, incidental or consequential provision as the Secretary of State considers necessary or expedient, including provision amending any relevant enactment.
4
Subsection (5) applies to any summary offence which—
a
is an offence under a relevant enactment, and
b
is punishable with a maximum term of imprisonment of six months.
C125
The maximum term of imprisonment to which a person is liable on conviction of an offence to which this subsection applies is, by virtue of this subsection, 51 weeks (and the relevant enactment in question is to be read as if it had been amended accordingly).
6
Neither of the following—
a
an order under subsection (2), or
b
subsection (5),
affects the penalty for any offence committed before the commencement of that order or subsection (as the case may be).
I377
In this section and section 282 “relevant enactment” means any enactment contained in—
a
an Act passed before or in the same Session as this Act, or
b
any subordinate legislation made before the passing of this Act.
I378
In subsection (7) “subordinate legislation” has the same meaning as in the Interpretation Act 1978 (c. 30).
C13I35282Increase in maximum term that may be imposed on summary conviction of offence triable either way
1
In section 32 of the Magistrates' Courts Act 1980 (c. 43)
(penalties on summary conviction for offences triable either way) in subsection (1)
(offences listed in Schedule 1 to that Act) for “not exceeding 6 months” there is substituted “
not exceeding 12 months
”
.
2
Subsection (3) applies to any offence triable either way which—
a
is an offence under a relevant enactment,
b
is punishable with imprisonment on summary conviction, and
c
is not listed in Schedule 1 to the Magistrates' Courts Act 1980.
C143
The F477... term of imprisonment to which a person is liable on summary conviction of an offence to which this subsection applies is by virtue of this subsection F478a term not exceeding the general limit in a magistrates’ court (and the relevant enactment in question is to be read as if it had been amended accordingly).
4
Nothing in this section affects the penalty for any offence committed before the commencement of this section.
283Enabling powers: power to alter maximum penalties
1
The Secretary of State may by order, in accordance with subsection (2) F479..., amend any relevant enactment which confers a power (however framed or worded) by subordinate legislation to make a person—
a
as regards a summary offence, liable on conviction to a term of imprisonment;
F480b
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2
An order made by virtue of paragraph (a) of subsection (1) may amend the relevant enactment in question so as to—
a
restrict the power so that a person may no longer be made liable on conviction of a summary offence to a term of imprisonment, or
b
increase to 51 weeks the maximum term of imprisonment to which a person may be made liable on conviction of a summary offence under the power.
F4813
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
I364
Schedule 27 (which amends the maximum penalties which may be imposed by virtue of certain enabling powers) shall have effect.
5
The power conferred by subsection (1) shall not apply to the enactments amended under Schedule 27.
6
An order under subsection (1) may make such supplementary, incidental or consequential provision as the Secretary of State considers necessary or expedient, including provision amending any relevant enactment.
I367
None of the following—
a
an order under subsection (1), or
b
Schedule 27,
affects the penalty for any offence committed before the commencement of that order or Schedule (as the case may be).
8
In subsection (1) “subordinate legislation” has the same meaning as in the Interpretation Act 1978 (c. 30).
9
In this section “relevant enactment” means any enactment contained in an Act passed before or in the same Session as this Act.
284Increase in penalties for drug-related offences
1
Schedule 28 (increase in penalties for certain drug-related offences) shall have effect.
2
That Schedule does not affect the penalty for any offence committed before the commencement of that Schedule.
285Increase in penalties for certain driving-related offences
1
In section 12A of the Theft Act 1968 (c. 60)
(aggravated vehicle-taking), in subsection (4), for “five years” there is substituted “
fourteen years
”
.
2
Part 1 of Schedule 2 to the Road Traffic Offenders Act 1988 (c. 53) (prosecution and punishment of offences) is amended in accordance with subsections (3) and (4).
3
In the entry relating to section 1 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 (c. 52)
(causing death by dangerous driving), in column 4, for “10 years” there is substituted “
14 years
”
.
4
In the entry relating to section 3A of that Act (causing death by careless driving when under influence of drink or drugs), in column 4, for “10 years” there is substituted “
14 years
”
.
5
Part I of Schedule 1 to the Road Traffic Offenders (Northern Ireland) Order 1996 (S.I. 1996/1320 (N.I. 10)) (prosecution and punishment of offences) is amended in accordance with subsections (6) and (7).
6
In the entry relating to Article 9 of the Road Traffic (Northern Ireland) Order 1995 (S.I. 1995/2994 (N.I. 18))
(causing death or grievous bodily injury by dangerous driving), in column 4, for “10 years” there is substituted “
14 years
”
.
7
In the entry relating to Article 14 of that Order (causing death or grievous bodily injury by careless driving when under the influence of drink or drugs), in column 4, for “10 years” there is substituted “
14 years
”
.
8
This section does not affect the penalty for any offence committed before the commencement of this section.
286Increase in penalties for offences under section 174 of Road Traffic Act 1988
1
In Part 1 of Schedule 2 to the Road Traffic Offenders Act 1988 (c. 53) (prosecution and punishment of offences), in the entry relating to section 174 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 (c. 52) (false statements and withholding material information), for columns (3) and (4) there is substituted—
(a) Summarily
(a) 6 months or the statutory maximum or both
(b) On indictment
(b) 2 years or a fine or both.
2
Section 282(3) (increase in maximum term that may be imposed on summary conviction of offence triable either way) has effect in relation to the entry amended by subsection (1) as it has effect in relation to any other enactment contained in an Act passed before this Act.
3
This section does not apply in relation to any offence committed before the commencement of this section.
Firearms offences
287Minimum sentence for certain firearms offences
After section 51 of the Firearms Act 1968 (c. 27) there is inserted the following section—
51AMinimum sentence for certain offences under s. 5
1
This section applies where—
a
an individual is convicted of—
i
an offence under section 5(1)(a), (ab), (aba), (ac), (ad), (ae), (af) or (c) of this Act, or
ii
an offence under section 5(1A)(a) of this Act, and
b
the offence was committed after the commencement of this section and at a time when he was aged 16 or over.
2
The court shall impose an appropriate custodial sentence (or order for detention) for a term of at least the required minimum term (with or without a fine) unless the court is of the opinion that there are exceptional circumstances relating to the offence or to the offender which justify its not doing so.
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 section to have been committed on the last of those days.
4
In this section “appropriate custodial sentence (or order for detention)” means—
a
in relation to England and Wales—
i
in the case of an offender who is aged 18 or over when convicted, a sentence of imprisonment, and
ii
in the case of an offender who is aged under 18 at that time, a sentence of detention under section 91 of the Powers of Criminal Courts (Sentencing) Act 2000;
b
in relation to Scotland—
i
in the case of an offender who is aged 21 or over when convicted, a sentence of imprisonment,
ii
in the case of an offender who is aged under 21 at that time (not being an offender mentioned in sub-paragraph (iii)), a sentence of detention under section 207 of the Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act 1995, and
iii
in the case of an offender who is aged under 18 at that time and is subject to a supervision requirement, an order for detention under section 44, or sentence of detention under section 208, of that Act.
5
In this section “the required minimum term” means—
a
in relation to England and Wales—
i
in the case of an offender who was aged 18 or over when he committed the offence, five years, and
ii
in the case of an offender who was under 18 at that time, three years, and
b
in relation to Scotland—
i
in the case of an offender who was aged 21 or over when he committed the offence, five years, and
ii
in the case of an offender who was aged under 21 at that time, three years.
288Certain firearms offences to be triable only on indictment
In Part 1 of Schedule 6 to the Firearms Act 1968 (c. 27) (prosecution and punishment of offences) for the entries relating to offences under section 5(1) (possessing or distributing prohibited weapons or ammunition) and section 5(1A) (possessing or distributing other prohibited weapons) there is substituted—
Section 5(1)(a), (ab), (aba), (ac), (ad), (ae), (af) or (c)
Possessing or distributing prohibited weapons or ammunition.
On indictment
10 years or a fine, or both.
Section 5(1)(b)
Possessing or distributing prohibited weapon designed for discharge of noxious liquid etc.
(a) Summary
(b) On indictment
6 months or a fine of the statutory maximum, or both.
10 years or a fine or both.
Section 5(1A)(a)
Possessing or distributing firearm disguised as other object.
On indictment
10 years or a fine, or both.
Section 5(1A)(b), (c), (d), (e), (f) or (g)
Possessing or distributing other prohibited weapons.
(a) Summary
(b) On indictment
6 months or a fine of the statutory maximum, or both.
10 years or a fine, or both.
F368289Power to sentence young offender to detention in respect of certain firearms offences: England and Wales
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
290Power to sentence young offender to detention in respect of certain firearms offences: Scotland
1
The Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act 1995 (c. 46) is amended as follows.
2
In section 49(3)
(children’s hearing for purpose of obtaining advice as to treatment of child), at the end there is added “
except that where the circumstances are such as are mentioned in paragraphs (a) and (b) of section 51A(1) of the Firearms Act 1968 it shall itself dispose of the case
”
.
3
In section 208 (detention of children convicted on indictment), the existing provisions become subsection (1); and after that subsection there is added—
2
Subsection (1) does not apply where the circumstances are such as are mentioned in paragraphs (a) and (b) of section 51A(1) of the Firearms Act 1968.
C45291Power by order to exclude application of minimum sentence to those under 18
C421
The Secretary of State may by order—
F369a
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F42aa
amend section 29(3)(a) of the Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006 by substituting for the word “16” the word 18,
F370b
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
c
amend subsection (3) of section 49 of the Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act 1995 by repealing the exception to that subsection,
d
repeal section 208(2) of that Act, and
e
make such other provision as he considers necessary or expedient in consequence of, or in connection with, the provision made by virtue of paragraphs (a) to (d).
2
The provision that may be made by virtue of subsection (1)(e) includes, in particular, provision amending or repealing any provision of an Act (whenever passed), including any provision of this Act.
292Sentencing for firearms offences in Northern Ireland
F43. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
293Increase in penalty for offences relating to importation or exportation of certain firearms
1
The Customs and Excise Management Act 1979 (c. 2) is amended as follows.
2
In section 50 (penalty for improper importation of goods), for subsection (5A) there is substituted—
5A
In the case of—
a
an offence under subsection (2) or (3) above committed in Great Britain in connection with a prohibition or restriction on the importation of any weapon or ammunition that is of a kind mentioned in section 5(1)(a), (ab), (aba), (ac), (ad), (ae), (af) or (c) or (1A)(a) of the Firearms Act 1968,
b
any such offence committed in Northern Ireland in connection with a prohibition or restriction on the importation of any weapon or ammunition that is of a kind mentioned in Article 6(1)(a), (ab), (ac), (ad), (ae) or (c) or (1A)(a) of the Firearms (Northern Ireland) Order 1981, or
c
any such offence committed in connection with the prohibition contained in section 20 of the Forgery and Counterfeiting Act 1981,
subsection (4)(b) above shall have effect as if for the words “7 years” there were substituted the words
“ 10 years ”.
3
In section 68 (offences in relation to exportation of prohibited or restricted goods) for subsection (4A) there is substituted—
4A
In the case of—
a
an offence under subsection (2) or (3) above committed in Great Britain in connection with a prohibition or restriction on the exportation of any weapon or ammunition that is of a kind mentioned in section 5(1)(a), (ab), (aba), (ac), (ad), (ae), (af) or (c) or (1A)(a) of the Firearms Act 1968,
b
any such offence committed in Northern Ireland in connection with a prohibition or restriction on the exportation of any weapon or ammunition that is of a kind mentioned in Article 6(1)(a), (ab), (ac), (ad), (ae) or (c) or (1A)(a) of the Firearms (Northern Ireland) Order 1981, or
c
any such offence committed in connection with the prohibition contained in section 21 of the Forgery and Counterfeiting Act 1981,
subsection (3)(b) above shall have effect as if for the words “7 years” there were substituted the words
“ 10 years ”.
4
In section 170 (penalty for fraudulent evasion of duty, etc), for subsection (4A) there is substituted—
4A
In the case of—
a
an offence under subsection (2) or (3) above committed in Great Britain in connection with a prohibition or restriction on the importation or exportation of any weapon or ammunition that is of a kind mentioned in section 5(1)(a), (ab), (aba), (ac), (ad), (ae), (af) or (c) or (1A)(a) of the Firearms Act 1968,
b
any such offence committed in Northern Ireland in connection with a prohibition or restriction on the importation or exportation of any weapon or ammunition that is of a kind mentioned in Article 6(1)(a), (ab), (ac), (ad), (ae) or (c) or (1A)(a) of the Firearms (Northern Ireland) Order 1981, or
c
any such offence committed in connection with the prohibitions contained in sections 20 and 21 of the Forgery and Counterfeiting Act 1981,
subsection (3)(b) above shall have effect as if for the words “7 years” there were substituted the words
“ 10 years ”.
5
This section does not affect the penalty for any offence committed before the commencement of this section.
Offenders transferred to mental hospital
294Duration of directions under Mental Health Act 1983 in relation to offenders
1
Section 50 of the Mental Health Act 1983 (c. 20) (further provisions as to prisoners under sentence) is amended as follows.
2
In subsection (1), for “the expiration of that person’s sentence” there is substituted “
his release date
”
.
3
For subsections (2) and (3) there is substituted—
2
A restriction direction in the case of a person serving a sentence of imprisonment shall cease to have effect, if it has not previously done so, on his release date.
3
In this section, references to a person’s release date are to the day (if any) on which he would be entitled to be released (whether unconditionally or on licence) from any prison or other institution in which he might have been detained if the transfer direction had not been given; and in determining that day there shall be disregarded—
a
any powers that would be exercisable by the Parole Board if he were detained in such a prison or other institution, and
b
any practice of the Secretary of State in relation to the early release under discretionary powers of persons detained in such a prison or other institution.
295Access to Parole Board for certain patients serving prison sentences
In section 74 of the Mental Health Act 1983 (restricted patients subject to restriction directions) after subsection (5) there is inserted—
5A
Where the tribunal have made a recommendation under subsection (1)(b) above in the case of a patient who is subject to a restriction direction or a limitation direction—
a
the fact that the restriction direction or limitation direction remains in force does not prevent the making of any application or reference to the Parole Board by or in respect of him or the exercise by him of any power to require the Secretary of State to refer his case to the Parole Board, and
b
if the Parole Board make a direction or recommendation by virtue of which the patient would become entitled to be released (whether unconditionally or on licence) from any prison or other institution in which he might have been detained if he had not been removed to hospital, the restriction direction or limitation direction shall cease to have effect at the time when he would become entitled to be so released.
296Duration of directions under Mental Health (Northern Ireland) Order 1986 in relation to offenders
1
Article 56 of the Mental Health (Northern Ireland) Order 1986 (S.I. 1986/ 595 (N.I. 4)) (further provisions as to prisoners under sentence) is amended as follows.
2
In paragraph (1), for “the expiration of that person’s sentence” there is substituted “
his release date
”
.
3
For paragraphs (2) and (3) there is substituted—
2
A restriction direction in the case of a person serving a sentence of imprisonment shall cease to have effect, if it has not previously done so, on his release date.
3
In this Article, references to a person’s release date are to the day (if any) on which he would be entitled to be released (whether unconditionally or on licence) from any prison or juvenile justice centre in which he might have been detained if the transfer direction had not been given; and in determining that day any powers that would be exercisable by the Sentence Review Commissioners or the Life Sentence Review Commissioners if he were detained in such a prison or juvenile justice centre shall be disregarded.
297Access to Sentence Review Commissioners and Life Sentence Review Commissioners for certain Northern Ireland patients
In Article 79 of the Mental Health (Northern Ireland) Order 1986 (restricted patients subject to restriction directions) after paragraph (5) there is inserted—
5A
Where the tribunal have made a recommendation under paragraph (1)(b) in the case of a patient who is subject to a restriction direction—
a
the fact that the restriction direction remains in force does not prevent—
i
the making of any application or reference to the Life Sentence Review Commissioners by or in respect of him or the exercise by him of any power to require the Secretary of State to refer his case to those Commissioners, or
ii
the making of any application by him to the Sentence Review Commissioners, and
b
if—
i
the Life Sentence Review Commissioners give a direction by virtue of which the patient would become entitled to be released (whether unconditionally or on licence) from any prison or juvenile justice centre in which he might have been detained if the transfer direction had not been given, or
ii
the Sentence Review Commissioners grant a declaration by virtue of which he would become so entitled,
the restriction direction shall cease to have effect at the time at which he would become so entitled.
Term of detention and training order
F371298Term of detention and training order
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Disqualification from working with children
299Disqualification from working with children
Schedule 30 (which contains amendments of Part 2 of the Criminal Justice and Court Services Act 2000 (c. 43) relating to disqualification orders under that Part) shall have effect.
Fine defaulters
I28C15300Power to impose unpaid work requirement F44curfew requirement or attendance centre requirement on fine defaulter
1
Subsection (2) applies in any case where, in respect of a person aged 16 or over, a magistrates' court—
a
has power under Part 3 of the Magistrates' Courts Act 1980 (c. 43) to issue a warrant of commitment for default in paying a sum adjudged to be paid by a conviction (other than a sum ordered to be paid under section 6 of the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (c. 29)), or
b
would, but for F312section 227 of the Sentencing Code (restrictions on custodial sentences for persons under 18), have power to issue such a warrant for such default.
2
The magistrates' court may, instead of issuing a warrant of commitment or, as the case may be, proceeding under section 81 of the Magistrates' Courts Act 1980 (enforcement of fines imposed on young offender), order the person in default to comply with—
a
an unpaid work requirement (as defined by F314paragraph 1 of Schedule 9 to the Sentencing Code), or
F474c
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3
In this Part “default order” means an order under subsection (2).
4
F316Section 207(5) and (6) of the Sentencing Code and paragraph 10(3) of Schedule 9 to that Code (which relate to electronic monitoring) have effect in relation to a default order as they have effect in relation to a community order.
5
Where a magistrates' court has power to make a default order, 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.
F3136
The following provisions of the Sentencing Code have effect in relation to default orders as they have effect in relation to community orders, but subject to the modifications contained in Schedule 31 to this Act—
sections 208(13), 210, 212 to 216, 394 and 395 (further provisions about community orders);
Schedule 9 (community orders and suspended sentence orders: requirements);
Schedule 10 (breach, revocation or amendment of community order);
Schedule 11 (transfer of community orders to Scotland or Northern Ireland).
7
Where a default order has been made 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, and
b
on payment of a part of the sum to any such person, the total number of hours or days to which the order relates is to be taken to be reduced by a proportion corresponding to that which the part paid bears to the whole sum.
8
In calculating any reduction required by subsection (7)(b), any fraction of a day or hour is to be disregarded.
I29301Fine defaulters: driving disqualification
1
Subsection (2) applies in any case where a magistrates' court—
a
has power under Part 3 of the Magistrates' Courts Act 1980 (c. 43) to issue a warrant of commitment for default in paying a sum adjudged to be paid by a conviction (other than a sum ordered to be paid under section 6 of the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (c. 29)), or
b
would, but for F372section 227 of the Sentencing Code (restrictions on custodial sentences for persons under 18), have power to issue such a warrant for such default.
2
The magistrates' court may, instead of issuing a warrant of commitment or, as the case may be, proceeding under section 81 of the Magistrates' Courts Act 1980 (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
Where an order has been made under subsection (2) 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, and
b
on payment of part of the sum to any such person, the total number of weeks or months to which the order relates is to be taken to be reduced by a proportion corresponding to that which the part paid bears to the whole sum.
4
In calculating any reduction required by subsection (3)(b) any fraction of a week or month is to be disregarded.
5
The Secretary of State may by order amend subsection (2) by substituting, for the period there specified, such other period as may be specified in the order.
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—
a
any such licence held by him F256...; or
b
in the case where he holds a Community licence (within the meaning of Part 3 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 (c. 52)), his Community licence F257....
7
In this section—
“driving licence” means a licence to drive a motor vehicle granted under Part 3 of the Road Traffic Act 1988;
F258...
Chapter 9Supplementary
I30C43302Execution of process between England and Wales and Scotland
Section 4 of the Summary Jurisdiction (Process) Act 1881 (c. 24) (execution of process of English and Welsh courts in Scotland) applies to any process issued by a magistrates' court under—
F207section 256AC(1) or (3),
section 256C(1) or (3),
F373...
F373...
F373...
F373...
F208paragraph 8(1) or 10(5) of Schedule 19A,
as it applies to process issued under the Magistrates' Courts Act 1980 by a magistrates' court.
I31303Sentencing: repeals
The following enactments (which are superseded by the provisions of this Part) shall cease to have effect—
a
Part 2 of the Criminal Justice Act 1991 (c. 53) (early release of prisoners),
b
in the Crime (Sentences) Act 1997 (c. 43)—
i
section 29 (power of Secretary of State to release life prisoners to whom section 28 of that Act does not apply),
ii
section 33 (transferred prisoners), and
iii
sections 35 and 40 (fine defaulters),
c
sections 80 and 81 of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 (c. 37) (sentencing guidelines), and
d
in the Sentencing Act—
i
Chapter 3 of Part 4 (community orders available only where offender 16 or over),
ii
section 85 (sexual or violent offences: extension of custodial term for licence purposes),
iii
sections 87 and 88 (remand in custody),
iv
section 109 (life sentence for second serious offence), and
v
Chapter 5 of Part 5 (suspended sentences).
I32304Amendments relating to sentencing
Schedule 32 (which contains amendments related to the provisions of this Part) shall have effect.
I33C44305Interpretation of Part 12
1
In this Part, except where the contrary intention appears—
F304...
F209...
F304...
F304...
F304...
“associated”, in relation to offences, is to be read in accordance with F305section 400 of the Sentencing Code;
“attendance centre” has the meaning given by section 221(2);
F304...
“community order” has the meaning given by F306section 200 of the Sentencing Code;
F304...
F304...
“court” (without more), except in Chapter 7, does not include a service courtF45, but this does not apply where a contrary intention appears from any provision of the Armed Forces Act 2006;
“curfew requirement”, in relation to a community order, F177... or suspended sentence order, has the meaning given by F307paragraph 9(1) of Schedule 9 to the Sentencing Code;
“custodial sentence” has the meaning given by F308section 222 of the Sentencing Code;
F175. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
“default order” has the meaning given by section 300(3);
F304...
F304...
F304...
F304...
F304...
F176. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
“licence” means a licence under Chapter 6;
F304...
F304...
F310“ the PCC(S)A 2000 ” means the Powers of Criminal Courts (Sentencing) Act 2000;
F304...
F304...
F304...
F304...
F304...
F304...
“sentence of imprisonment” does not include a committal—
- a
in default of payment of any sum of money,
- b
for want of sufficient distress to satisfy any sum of money, or
- c
for failure to do or abstain from doing anything required to be done or left undone ,
and references to sentencing an offender to imprisonment are to be read accordingly;
- a
“the Sentencing Act” means the Powers of Criminal Courts (Sentencing) Act 2000 (c. 6);
F46“service court” means—
- a
the Court Martial;
- b
the Summary Appeal Court;
- c
the Service Civilian Court;
- d
the Court Martial Appeal Court; or
- e
the Supreme Court on an appeal brought from the Court Martial Appeal Court;
- a
F1801A
In this Part any reference to want of sufficient distress to satisfy a sum includes a reference to circumstances where—
a
there is power to use the procedure in Schedule 12 to the Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Act 2007 to recover the sum from a person, but
b
it appears, after an attempt has been made to exercise the power, that the person's goods are insufficient to pay the amount outstanding (as defined by paragraph 50(3) of that Schedule).
2
For the purposes of any provision of this Part which requires the determination of the age of a person by the court or the Secretary of State, his age is to be taken to be that which it appears to the court or (as the case may be) the Secretary of State to be after considering any available evidence.
3
Any reference in this Part to an offence punishable with imprisonment is to be read without regard to any prohibition or restriction imposed by or under any Act on the imprisonment of young offenders.
F3114
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pt. 12 modified (28.3.2009 for certain purposes, otherwise 31.10.2009) by Armed Forces Act 2006 (c. 52), ss. 183(4), 383 (as amended (1.4.2008) by The Offender Management Act 2007 (Consequential Amendments) Order 2008 (S.I. 2008/912), art. 3, Sch. 1 para. 23(2)(b)); S.I. 2009/812, art. 3 (with transitional provisions in S.I. 2009/1059); S.I. 2009/1167, art. 4