Justice Secretary is considering plans to make chemical castration mandatory for paedophiles and rapists to reduce reoffending rates. The move is part of wider efforts to cut reoffending and ease strain on packed prisons. The Sun's campaign to protect children against sex offenders has influenced the decision.
Key Points
Chemical castration uses drugs to dull sex urges and reduce libido
Studies show reoffending rates could be slashed by up to 60%
Plan includes expanding the scheme to 20 prisons in England and Wales
Part of efforts to cut reoffending and ease strain on prisons
Pros
Reduces reoffending rates by up to 60%
Could protect children and general public from sex offenders
Part of wider efforts to cut reoffending and ease prison strain