The Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice (): I am today announcing
the Government’s decision to bring forward “Harper’s Law”.
PC Andrew Harper was tragically killed responding to a theft in
July 2019. The defendants in the case, two aged 17 and one aged
18, were convicted of the unlawful act manslaughter of PC Harper,
with two receiving a sentence of detention of 13 years, and
another receiving an extended sentence of 19 years. These
sentences correctly reflected the law at the time, but I do not
believe the law goes far enough here.
PC Andrew Harper’s widow, Lissie Harper, has campaigned
tirelessly for justice for her late husband, alongside the Thames
Valley Police Federation and with support from other police
federations across the country and Members across this House.
Following detailed discussion with the Home Secretary, I am today
announcing “Harper’s Law”. This measure will extend mandatory
life sentences to those convicted of the unlawful act
manslaughter of an emergency worker who is exercising their
functions as such a worker.
This sentence will apply to 16 and 17-year-olds as well as adult
offenders. It will include judicial discretion to allow for the
imposition of an alternative sentence in truly exceptional
circumstances. The minimum term of the life sentence, or the
minimum amount of time the offender must spend in custody before
being considered by the Parole Board for release on licence, will
still be for the courts to determine.
This measure reflects the vital role which our emergency workers
fulfil in protecting all of us. It recognises the risks that
emergency workers face. I will bring forward this measure at the
earliest legislative opportunity.
