Legislative approaches to recognising the vulnerability of young people and preventing their criminalisation

Abstract

Discusses the introduction by the Modern Slavery Act 2015 s.45 of a specific defence for children over the minimum age of criminal responsibility, (MACR) but under 18, which recognises their vulnerability, and considers its wider implications. Reviews the politicisation of youth crime, the role of the media, the position in Scotland and Wales, and the arguments for raising the MACR and introducing a further defence of developmental immaturity. Legislation cited Modern Slavery Act 2015 (c.30)s.4