Independent report

Independent Sentencing Review: History and trends in sentencing

The Independent Sentencing Review, chaired by David Gauke, has published Part 1 of the report.

• From: Ministry of Justice
• Published: 18 February 2025
• Last updated: 17 March 2025 — See all updates

Applies to England and Wales

Documents

Independent Sentencing Review: History and trends in sentencing

PDF, 2.03 MB, 65 pages

Independent Sentencing Review: History and trends in sentencing (easy read version)

PDF, 10.7 MB, 12 pages

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Adolygiad Dedfrydu Annibynnol: Hanes a Thueddiadau Dedfrydu (Welsh language)

PDF, 2.8 MB, 65 pages

Details

The Independent Sentencing Review has published Part 1 of its final report. This report:

• Provides a comprehensive explanation of why and how prison population has sharply increased in recent decades and is expected to continue to grow, including research spotlights and case studies, and outlines the prison population challenge in figures
• Advocates for an approach to sentencing that is rooted in the principles of sentencing and public service reform, where resources could be more effectively deployed to reduce crime and the number of victims.

Published 18 February 2025

Last updated 17 March 2025 + show all updates

1. 17 March 2025

   Added 'Adolygiad Dedfrydu Annibynnol: Hanes a Thueddiadau Dedfrydu' - Welsh language version of Part 1 of the report.

2. 6 March 2025

   Easy read version published.

3. 18 February 2025

   First published.