To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will take steps to bring the law in Northern Ireland into line with that in England and Wales following the decision by the Prime Minister to overhaul the sentencing system for convicted criminals; and if he will make a statement. (89229)

Last year the Northern Ireland Office undertook a public consultation on the Review of the Sentencing Framework in Northern Ireland which covered many of the sentencing issues which will be the subject of further consultation in England and Wales. I will shortly be examining policy options considered in the review and the responses to the consultation. Protection of the public will be a central consideration.