Fraud: Sentencing

Mr. Bellingham
To ask the Secretary of State for Justice what plans he has to introduce tougher sentencing for perpetrators of fraud, as recommended in the 2006 Fraud Review.

Maria Eagle
The Fraud Review recommended that the Sentencing Guidelines Council (SGC) issue guidelines in respect of fraud offences. The SGC has indicated that it intends to issue guidance on sentencing under the new Fraud Act 2006. On 16 August 2007, the Sentencing Advisory Panel issued a consultation paper on sentencing for fraud offences. The consultation will close on 6 December 2007.

The Fraud Review also recommended increases in the maximum sentence for fraud offences. The Government are considering their response.