Policing Bill voted for by MPs in Commons despite backlash – what it means

Westminster Bridge: Protesters chant against policing bill

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The Bill has far-reaching consequences with implications on everything from the sentencing of child murder to the right to protest. Ministers’ plans faced criticism from MPs on both sides of the House as well as from campaigners.

However, despite the backlash, the Bill was supported by 359 votes to 263.

An attempt by Labour to block the proposed legislation going through Parliament was rejected by MPs and the legislation will now move on to the next stage of debate.

Fierce debate over the ramifications of the proposed laws has gripped the Commons over the past two days.

DUP MP Gavin Robinson described the plans as “overarching, sweeping and draconian”, while Labour’s Clive Efford claimed: “We’re witnessing a Tory-led coup without guns.”

The proposals outline a radical overhaul of the justice system, including:

  • Changing sentencing rules so serious offenders spend longer in jail
  • Giving judges the power to hand down life sentences for child murder
  • Doubling the maximum sentence for low-level assault on emergency workers to two years
  • Giving police more powers to crack down on non-violent protests

More to follow…

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