On 20 February 2025, a new independent commission was established to sentencing and penal policy. It’s Chaired by Martyn Evans (former Chair of the Scottish Police Authority) and our HLS Convenor, Sheriff David Mackie, is one of the expert Commissioners.

On 15 April 2025 it issued a call for views with a closing date of 25 May 2025. It asks 4 questions:

i) what changes could be made to community sentences and other alternatives to prison to reduce crime, protect victims, and create safer communities?

ii) in your view, what are the priority issues affecting bail and remand? In Scotland, what needs to change and why?

iii) in your view, what are the priority issues affecting release from prison custody? In Scotland, what needs to change and why?

iv) are there any recommendations from the McLeish Commission or subsequent reports by other bodies that haven't been put into action yet but could still be beneficial? 

We responded to the call for views here.