In a consultation published this week, ‘Terrorism offences guideline’, the council proposes longer sentences for the ‘encouragement of terrorism’, ‘failure to disclose information about acts of terrorism’ and ‘collection of terrorist information’. The proposals reflect increased statutory maximum sentences introduced by the Counter-Terrorism and Border Security Act 2019.
The council also proposes distinguishing between offenders in a position of authority or influence who directly invite support for a proscribed organisation, and one who is reckless when expressing supportive views.
Sentencing guidelines must be followed, unless the court is satisfied that it would be contrary to the interest of justice to do so. The consultation ends on 3 December 2019, and the changes would come into effect in early 2020.
Sentencing Council member Mr Justice Goose said: ‘Terrorism offences are extremely serious and can cover a wide range of factual circumstances, making them difficult and sensitive offences to sentence. For this reason, the Council is keen to ensure that the guidelines are kept up to date and fit for purpose.’
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