Overview

This bill amends the Coroners and Justice Act 2009 to include "prohibited written material about children" alongside prohibited images of children as an offense. This aims to close a loophole in the existing law, ensuring that written material of a similarly harmful nature is also criminalised.

Description

The bill specifically amends Section 62 of the Coroners and Justice Act 2009. The key change is the addition of "prohibited written material about a child" to the definition of illegal possession. This material is defined as written content that is pornographic, falls under the existing criteria of subsection (6) of Section 62 (relating to the sexual abuse of children), and is grossly offensive, disgusting, or obscene. The bill clarifies that when considering a series of written material, the context within the series should be considered to determine if the material is pornographic; material that is part of a non-pornographic narrative might not be considered illegal. The amendment also applies to England, Wales, and Northern Ireland and comes into force immediately upon passage.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to have a significant direct impact on government spending. The cost will primarily relate to the enforcement of the new law by existing law enforcement agencies.

Groups Affected

• Individuals possessing prohibited written material about children: These individuals face prosecution under the amended law.
• Law enforcement agencies: These agencies will be responsible for enforcing the new law, requiring training and resources to identify and prosecute offenders.
• Publishers and distributors of written material: They will need to ensure compliance with the new law.

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