What is a key feature of sentencing reviews?

• A. Parliament sets all sentences
• B. Judges can adjust sentences on appeal
• C. The Attorney General can refer unduly lenient sentences to the Court of Appeal
• D. No changes to sentencing

Answer: (C)

Sentencing reviews focus on preventing punishments that are unduly lenient for serious offences. The key feature is the Attorney General’s power to refer a sentence that appears unduly lenient to the Court of Appeal for review. When the reference is made, the Court of Appeal can review the case and, if warranted, increase the sentence to a more appropriate level. This mechanism provides a check on sentencing outcomes and sits alongside ordinary appeals, rather than being driven by Parliament setting every sentence or by judges adjusting sentences through standard appeals in all cases. The point of the review is to correct particularly lenient results, ensuring sentencing reflects the seriousness of the offence and public confidence in the justice system.