Consultation on the use of remand and arrangements around release from custody – two areas which have the potential to contribute to a shift in how prison and imprisonment is used in a modern Scotland.
The Scottish Government has published a public consultation on Bail and Release from Custody Arrangements in Scotland, which will run for 12 weeks and close on 7 February 2022.
We want to reassess what role prisons and the use of imprisonment should play in a just and fair society. We have the opportunity to take a transformative approach to the way some parts of the justice system operates in Scotland, delivering better outcomes for all. This includes a focus on the role of custody, both now and in the future. The use of remand and arrangements around release from custody are two areas which we consider have the potential to contribute to this shift in how prison is used in a modern Scotland, and this consultation seeks your views on reforms in these areas.
The consultation seeks views on proposed reforms relating to the law governing the use of bail and remand for those accused of criminal offences and the release from custody of those serving sentences following conviction. This is the first stage in a longer-term consideration of how custody is used in Scotland.
Our proposed reforms relating to the law on bail have a focus on emphasising public safety as being the determining factor justifying remand as we feel that those who do not pose a risk of serious harm should be managed in the community. The consultation also seeks views on what alternatives to remand and support for people leaving remand could look like in the future. We are also seeking views on proposals around release arrangements for certain prisoners and on the support provided to people on release from custody, with an emphasis on supporting reintegration.
These proposed reforms have an emphasis on both addressing the underlying causes of offending, and protecting public safety.
The full consultation document can be viewed and downloaded here, and can be responded to online using the Citizen Space hub here. They are looking to seek the views of as many people as possible. If you would like any further information or to discuss the consultation, please contact futureofcustody@gov.scot
