Petition · past parliament · Ministry of Justice
Review handling of rape and sexual offences committed by under 18s
Closed
151 signatures
What the petition asks
We want the Government to review how rape and sexual offences committed by under 18s are handled by the criminal justice system, and in particular how decisions to prosecute are made. We believe that too many offences are not prosecuted because the CPS believes it is not in the public interest.
Under 18s can be guilty of sexual offences, including rape, but when these crimes are committed it is up to the Crown Prosecution Service whether to prosecute the accused. We believe that the CPS is too lenient in bringing prosecutions against under 18s. A Government review could identify any issues with decision-making, and make recommendations for change where necessary.
Timeline
| 19 Jul 2022 | Petition opened for signatures |
| 2 Feb 2023 | Closed to new signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
151
Status
Closed
Department
Ministry of Justice
Opened
19 Jul 2022
Closed
2 Feb 2023
Follow this petition
Sign in to get an email when the government responds, a debate is scheduled or held, or the petition closes.
Source: the official petition page. Last checked 15 Jul 2026.