Restraint of young offenders to be debated by Lords

The House of Lords will today attempt to annul controversial legislation extending staff powers to restrain children in secure training centres.

Liberal Democrat Lord Carlile, who is president of the Howard League for Penal Reform, is due to lead the debate this afternoon.

The Secure Training Centre (Amendment Rules) 2007 statutory instrument, which came into force last week, will allow STC staff to restrain children for reasons of “good order and discipline.”

Currently children held in STCs can only be restrained if at risk of harm or escape.

Campaigners argue the change in rules could lead to an increase in the use of restraint against children.

The Youth Justice Board has supported the legislation, saying it will give custody officers “comparable powers” to staff working in similar settings with young people.

Related articles:

Children’s Commissioner attacks government over restraint