Age of Criminal Responsibility Bill [HL]

Key Points

• Raises the minimum age of criminal responsibility from 10 to a higher age (to be specified in the Bill).
• Shifts how offences by children below the new threshold are dealt with, prioritising welfare and safeguarding over punishment.
• Requires public bodies such as the police, courts and social services to apply the new threshold consistently.
• Could involve new procedures and resources for the criminal justice and child welfare systems.
• Sets out the legislative path to implement the new age, with further stages in both Houses if it progresses.

Progress

The Bill is at the Lords' second reading. If it progresses, it would move to the committee stage and then to the House of Commons for further consideration.