The Victims and Courts Bill completes the Lords stage with reforms on sentencing and victims’ rights
The House of Lords has completed its examination of the Victims and Courts Bill, marking the end of its passage through the upper chamber before returning to the House of Commons.
Peers conducted the bill’s third reading on Tuesday, 17 March 2026. This stage provides an opportunity to review the legislation in its final form and ensure that it is effective, workable, and free from loopholes.
The bill introduces a range of criminal justice reforms. Among its provisions are measures to compel offenders to attend their sentencing hearings, as well as restrictions on parental responsibility for certain sex offenders.
It also includes provisions designed to strengthen the role of the Victims’ Commissioner. In addition, the bill expands the eligibility criteria for Crown Prosecutor appointments and extends the time limits available to the Attorney General’s Office to review cases under the unduly lenient sentences scheme.
During the third reading, peers considered a single housekeeping amendment. This amendment was agreed without a division. Members also used the stage to reflect on the bill’s progress through the House of Lords.
The legislation has undergone detailed scrutiny during earlier stages. The committee stage took place in February, where members examined the bill line by line. This was followed by the report stage in March, allowing further detailed consideration and amendment. The bill’s second reading, which focused on its key principles, was held in December.
With its passage through the Lords now complete, the bill will return to the House of Commons. MPs will consider the amendments made by peers before deciding on the next steps in the legislative process.
The Victims and Courts Bill forms part of ongoing efforts to update aspects of the criminal justice system. Its provisions address areas including court procedure, prosecutorial roles, and mechanisms for reviewing sentencing decisions.
The next stage will determine whether the Commons agrees to the changes made in the Lords. Following this process, the bill may proceed towards becoming law.