Petition · Ministry of Justice
Replace life sentences with whole life terms for the most serious offenders
Closed
252 signatures
What the petition asks
We call upon the UK Government to implement legislation that replaces life sentences with whole life terms for offenders whose crimes demonstrate the highest level of severity, such as premeditated murder or violent sexual offences, ensuring no eligibility for parole.
Current life sentences may allow parole after a minimum life term, even for the most serious crimes. We do not believe this reflects the severity of serious offences. We think replacing life sentences with whole life terms would ensure justice, promote public safety and uphold accountability, while allowing judges to consider mitigating factors on a case by case basis.
Timeline
| 13 Aug 2025 | Petition opened for signatures |
| 13 Feb 2026 | Closed to new signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
252
Status
Closed
Department
Ministry of Justice
Opened
13 Aug 2025
Closed
13 Feb 2026
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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 7 Aug 2026.