Sentencing Bill – Committee of the Whole House

The Bill passed its second reading on 16 September 2025 and came before a Committee of the Whole House for further debate and votes on 21 October 2025. The House considers the Bill in the same way as a Public Bill Committee, but does not take evidence.

The Sentencing Bill aims to ease prison overcrowding while keeping dangerous offenders in custody longer. It introduces a new “Progression model” for determinate sentences, allowing misconduct in custody to extend time served. On release, offenders may face stricter supervision. The Bill also strengthens community and suspended sentences.

There were six amendments selected for debate and votes:

Amendment 46, stipulates that a suspended sentence would apply to sentences of less than 12 months and this amendment was lost:  Ayes 105, Noes 381.

Clause 1, ensures that the suspended sentences do not apply to offences committed while the offender was subject to a supervision order or in circumstances which are closely connected with the breach by the offender of a court order or an order or award in proceedings in respect of a service offence. Ayes 389, Noes 102

Amendment 24, disapplys the  early release provisions of the Bill in relation to those convicted of the offences listed in the amendment, and would require the Secretary of State to consult on and ensure exclusions for those convicted of other serious violent and sexual offence categories. Ayes 182, Noes 307.

New clause 6, which would mean that anyone who causes death by dangerous or careless driving (or related offences) would be banned from driving for life. Ayes 167, Noes 313.

New clause 9, requires HMCTS to collect data and other information on sentencing and sentenced offenders, and would require the Government to publish statistics on that data every three months. Ayes 104, Noes 317.

New clause 30, which would implement a resentencing exercise in relation to all public protection sentenced individuals, and establish a time-limited expert committee, including a member of the judiciary, to advise on the practical implementation of such an exercise. Ayes 77, Noes 390.

The Bill will be considered again on 29 October 2025.