CAT concluding observations 2019, paragraph 23
Plain English recommendation
Government should: Raise the minimum age of criminal responsibility. Adapt the youth justice system in line with advice issued by the UN on juvenile justice, which states that restraint should be used only in exceptional cases, where all other control methods have been tried and have failed. Ban solitary confinement for children. Ban the transporting of prisoners in any way that subjects them to unnecessary risk of abuse, for example transporting children and adult prisoners in the same vehicle.
Original UN recommendation
The Committee reiterates its previous recommendation (CAT/C/GBR/CO/5, para. 27) that the State party raise the minimum age of criminal responsibility and ensure the full implementation of juvenile justice standards. In accordance with Rules 63-64 of the UN Rules for the Protection of Juveniles Deprived of their Liberty (General Assembly resolution 45/113), instruments of restraint and force should only be used in exceptional cases, where all other control methods have been exhausted and failed. In addition, the State party should prohibit any use of solitary confinement against juveniles. It should also prohibit the transport of prisoners in any way that subjects them to unnecessary physical risk of abuse in violation of the Convention.
Date of UN examination
08/05/2019
UN article number
11 (review of detention procedures), 16 (cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment)
Original UN document
Download the CAT concluding observations 2019 on the UN website