Ministers are planning to introduce a last-minute rule change this week to overturn sentencing guidelines which could have led to unequal sentences based on factors such as age, sex, and ethnicity. Shabana Mahmood, the justice secretary, is set to bring a bill to the Commons to overrule the guidelines, which are due to become effective in England and Wales next Tuesday. According to sources, the emergency legislation would instruct judges to disregard the Sentencing Council’s guidance and could pass through parliament in as little as 24 hours. The guidelines, aimed at reducing prejudice and reoffending, have been criticized by ministers for promoting “two-tier justice.” This week, Mahmood will attempt to introduce the bill to the Commons, following a letter to the Sentencing Council urging the change. However, the council has refused to revise the guidelines, highlighting the importance of fair treatment of all offenders. In the long term, Mahmood is considering a more comprehensive plan to give ministers the authority to veto or amend Sentencing Council decisions before they take effect. She has ordered a review of the council’s role and powers, which could be reflected in an upcoming sentencing bill.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/law/2025/mar/30/ministers-bill-overturn-sentencing-guidelines-england-wales