Overview

This bill seeks to posthumously pardon members of the armed forces convicted of or cautioned for certain offences that have since been abolished. It amends the Policing and Crime Act 2017 to include a wider range of historical military offences within its posthumous pardon scheme.

Description

The bill amends the Policing and Crime Act 2017, specifically section 164, which deals with posthumous pardons. The amendment expands the list of offences eligible for posthumous pardon to include a significant number of historical military offences dating back to 1688. These offences, primarily related to mutiny and desertion, were covered under various Acts of Parliament, from 1 Will. & Mar. c. 5 to the Army Discipline and Regulation Act 1879. The bill adds these acts and their related offenses to those eligible for a posthumous pardon, ensuring that those who may have faced unjust convictions under outdated legislation can be exonerated posthumously.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to have a significant impact on government spending, as it primarily involves amending existing legislation and processing pardon applications. No specific figures are provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

This bill primarily affects the descendants of members of the British Armed Forces who were convicted of or cautioned for the specified abolished offences. The impact is positive, offering a form of posthumous exoneration and potentially restoring family reputations. It may also indirectly impact historical researchers and those studying military justice.

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