Overview

This bill proposes to make parents legally responsible for the offences committed by their children or young people, if those children or young people are not charged or penalized for their actions. Parents could face the same consequences as their children for the committed crime.

Description

The Young Offenders (Parental Responsibility) Bill aims to introduce a new law holding parents legally accountable for crimes committed by their children or young people, provided the child or young person escapes legal consequences.

Key Provisions:

• Parental Responsibility: Parents with parental responsibility (as defined by the Children Act 1989, Section 3) will be held liable if their child or young person (as defined by the Criminal Justice Act 1991, Section 99) commits an offense but avoids penalties.
• Liability: Parents will be subject to the same charges and penalties as would have been applied to their child for the committed offence.
• Geographic Scope: The bill applies only to England and Wales.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't explicitly state the cost to the government. However, increased court cases and potential enforcement costs are likely implications. Further financial impact assessment would be needed for accurate cost projections.

Groups Affected

• Parents: Parents of children and young people who commit offenses could face criminal charges and penalties.
• Children and Young People: The bill's impact on children and young people is indirect, but it may influence parental supervision and behavior.
• The Courts and Justice System: The bill would lead to an increased workload for courts and law enforcement agencies.

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