Starmer plans legal changes against 'two-tier' sentencing rules

The UK government, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, is pushing back against new sentencing guidelines proposed by the Sentencing Council, which critics argue create a 'two-tier' system that discriminates against white men. Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood has voiced her strong opposition to the guidelines, emphasizing that they result in differential treatment based on race, culture, or religion. The Sentencing Council, however, defends the guidelines, stating they are meant to ensure judges have comprehensive information about offenders before sentencing. Following the Council's refusal to abandon the guidelines, Starmer indicated that the government is considering legislative changes and all options are on the table, including potential abolition of the Sentencing Council. The controversy has sparked significant debate about fairness in sentencing and the role of ethnicity in judicial decisions. Both Starmer and Mahmood have expressed disappointment over the Council's stance and are prepared to act swiftly if necessary.