Petition · past parliament · Ministry of Justice

Give courts powers to sentence offenders to national service instead of prison

Closed 64 signatures

What the petition asks

We think the courts should be able to sentence convicted prisoners to a period of National Service instead of prison. We believe this could act as a stronger deterrent and help reduce crime.
Some prisons are overcrowded. Enabling offenders to be sent into national service will reduce the number of convicted prisoners. The army can teach prisoners self respect, discipline and give them purpose. Good behaviour could be rewarded with skills and qualifications, which could lead to better outcomes. National service could help bolster numbers in the army and bridge the gap.

Timeline

2 Feb 2024 Petition opened for signatures
29 May 2024 Closed to new signatures

Key facts

Signatures 64
Status Closed
Department Ministry of Justice
Opened 2 Feb 2024
Closed 29 May 2024

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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 15 Jul 2026.