Parliamentary.ai

Overview

This bill creates a new criminal offence specifically targeting child criminal exploitation in England and Wales. It aims to strengthen legal protections for children at risk of being drawn into criminal activity, regardless of whether the child actually commits a crime.

Description

The Child Criminal Exploitation Bill establishes a new crime: recruiting or using another person to recruit a child for involvement in criminal activities. This is defined broadly, including actions like directly inducing, inciting, coercing, or compelling a child. It's crucial to note that it is not a defence to claim ignorance of the child's age. The bill also clarifies that a child's involvement or conviction in a separate crime doesn't impact the prosecution of those exploiting them. Penalties for this new offence range up to 20 years imprisonment on summary conviction and up to 10 years on indictment.

Key Definitions:

• Child: Anyone under 18 years old.
• Criminal activity: Any conduct that is a crime.
• Recruit: Includes directly inducing, inciting, coercing, or compelling.

The bill applies to England and Wales and will come into force three months after it becomes law.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending figures. The costs will likely involve increased law enforcement resources for investigations and prosecutions, as well as potential support services for victims.

Groups Affected

• Children: The bill aims to protect children from exploitation, offering stronger legal safeguards against being recruited into criminal activity.
• Law enforcement: Police and other agencies will have a new legal tool to combat child criminal exploitation.
• Prosecutors: Will be responsible for pursuing cases under the new law.
• Individuals involved in child criminal exploitation: This bill significantly increases the potential penalties for those found guilty of these offences.