Dear Dominic,

I am writing with regard to the 15-month sentence handed down to Stuart Hall for 14 counts of sexual assault on young girls. This sentence surely cannot be strong enough for the seriousness and circumstances of the crime.  Sexual assault is in itself a very serious offence and there were many aggravating factors present in this case: the victims were young; there was pattern of behaviour over a long period of time; there was an abuse of trust; and, as the trial judge has said, Hall’s initial response to the charges will have compounded the victims’ distress. Given all this, 15 months is not just a lenient sentence, it is unduly lenient. I urge you to use your power to refer unduly lenient sentences to the Court of Appeal and argue for it to be extended. I am also sending a copy of this letter to the Director of Public Prosecutions, Keir Starmer QC and I urge him formally to refer the case to your attention.

Best wishes

Emily Thornberry MP

Shadow Attorney General

How things change…

See also: Labour MP’s EDM: Stuart Hall is “Icon With Youth Of Today”, This Won’t Be On Labour Leaflets