Petition · Home Office
Review Section 47 of the Offences Against the Person Act 1861
Closed
47 signatures
What the petition asks
We want the Government to review Section 47 of the Offences Against the Person Act 1861. We think it’s outdated and too broad. We think we need a fairer, modern law that reflects the severity and context of each case and avoids lifelong consequences for minor or provoked incidents.
We think section 47 fails to reflect individual circumstances, leaving people with lifelong consequences for brief or provoked incidents. We feel it doesn’t account for self-defence, harassment, or mental health factors. We think a review is needed to ensure justice is fair, proportionate, and fit for today’s society. We feel it treats all ABH incidents the same, ignoring intent, context, and severity. People may face lifelong consequences for brief or provoked actions. We think we need a review for fair and proportionate justice.
Timeline
| 11 Aug 2025 | Petition opened for signatures |
| 11 Feb 2026 | Closed to new signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
47
Status
Closed
Department
Home Office
Opened
11 Aug 2025
Closed
11 Feb 2026
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 20 Aug 2026.