Reconsideration of Parole Board decisions: Creating a new and open system
Download the full outcome
Detail of outcome
This consultation sought the public’s view on a mechanism that would allow the Parole Board to reconsider its decisions in certain circumstances.
The Government has concluded that there should be a mechanism to allow reconsideration of parole decisions.
The process will provide an easier way to challenge decisions which appear to be seriously flawed. The Secretary of State will able to apply for reconsideration to the Parole Board, taking account of any representations from victims. It will no longer be necessary to resort to costly and time-consuming judicial review proceeding.
Decisions on whether a case should be reconsidered will be taken by judicial members of the Parole Board. Reasons for their decisions will be provided to victims.
We will make provision in the Parole Board Rules to implement these changes later this year. Between now and then, we will put into place the necessary guidance, training and resources need to operate this mechanism.
Original consultation
Consultation description
In January 2018, the Secretary of State launched a Review into the law, policy and procedure relating to parole decisions, focussing on the following four work strands:
- the law, policy, guidance and practice relating to challenges to Parole Board decision making
- the transparency of Parole Board decision making
- victim involvement in Parole Board hearings
- arrangements for communicating with victims
As a result, we have concluded that, in certain circumstances, Parole Board decisions should be allowed to be reconsidered. This consultation is aimed at those who have an interest in the decision making of the Parole Board for England and Wales. This paper considers and seeks views on the proposed parameters for and operation of the proposed reconsideration process, with respect to:
- which types of decisions should be reconsidered
- who should be able to apply for reconsideration of a decision
- on what basis a decision should be reconsidered
- how we can make the process transparent whilst also ensuring there are sufficient safeguards to protect panel members, victims and others
Documents
Last updated 4 March 2019 + show all updates
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Welsh translation of outcome published.
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Government response published.
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First published.