The sentencing of precursor terrorism crimes in the United Kingdom

Abstract

In the final chapter 22 by Florence Lee and Clive Walker, 'The Sentencing of Precursor Terrorism Crimes in the United Kingdom', it is recognised that the penology of terrorism in the UK reflects above all the growing and disproportionate salience of retribution and public protection, in line with the pre-emptive impact of precursor crimes themselves. A fair and effective agenda for sentencing would also comprise the reduction of crime, reparation, and rehabilitation, but these aims are muted. These sentencing trends are addressed in two tranches. The first tranche involves legislative changes which inevitably impose greater severity and seem be accelerating the trend. The secondary tranche flows from opportunities or conditions created via the primary approach and emphasises tougher sentencing guidelines in relation to precursor crimes. These indicators will be considered with reference to their fairness and effectiveness.