'˜Clean sweep' overhaul of sentencing law dating back centuries

The vast array of laws governing the sentencing of criminals will be dramatically scaled back under plans that could save hundreds of millions of pounds.

The legal framework underpinning the punishment of offenders in England and Wales is currently spread across more than 1,000 pages and stretches back as far as the 1300s.

Following a consultation, the Law Commission will today (Nov 22) unveil details of an overhaul that will mean anyone convicted should be sentenced under a simplified and modern sentencing code.

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The body, which advises the Government on legal reform, says the measure would mean judges are no longer required to search back through layers of old law.

This would decrease the number of unlawful sentences handed out, avoid unnecessary appeals and reduce delays, according to the commission.

Law commissioner for criminal law Professor David Ormerod QC said: “Current sentencing laws are simply not up to standard.

“The public expect clear, transparent and most of all fair judgments. Far too often this is not the case.