Minister for Justice proposes tougher restrictions around bail laws

The Government is proposing tougher bail rules for adults convicted of certain child sex offences.

Under amendments to the Prison Amendment Bill, convicted offenders awaiting sentence would only be granted bail in limited circumstances.

The amendment would apply to any sentences imposed after the law comes into force.

The Minister for Justice, Nigel Feetham, has put forward amendments to legislation that would tighten the law around bail after conviction in certain child sex offence cases.

In situations in which an adult has been convicted of specified offences, and their sentencing has been adjourned, bail would only be allowed if the court is satisfied there is no real prospect of a custodial sentence, or if exceptional circumstances justify release.

The burden would fall on the convicted person to prove that.

The Government says routine personal or financial considerations, including arranging affairs, would not qualify as exceptional circumstances.

If bail is granted, the court would have to give clear and reasoned decisions in open court.

The Minister for Justice has said the intention is to bring the Bill before Parliament ahead of the summer recess.