Castration for paedophiles is being rolled out in MORE UK areas to keep ‘dangerous’ predators ‘under control’

CHEMICAL castration for dangerous paedophiles is being rolled out in more areas, the Justice Secretary has promised. David Lammy insisted the hardline punishment for sex offenders was being expanded to more jails around the country. Chemical castration for dangerous paedophiles is being rolled out in more areas, the Government has insisted Credit: Getty David Lammy insists chemical castration scheme for sex offenders is being expanded despite fears it had been dropped Credit: PA His predecessor in the job Shabana Mahmood first announced her intention to make it mandatory for the worst predators. But since she became Home Secretary the government has made little noise about the controversial policy. Sign up for the Politics newsletter Thank you! Asked by The Sun if it had been dropped, Mr Lammy said: “It has not been abandoned. He added: “In fact we’ve extended the areas in the country where this can be done. It’s important these dangerous individuals are kept under control.” The comments will reassure campaigners who fear ministers were rowing back on tougher measures for the worst sexual predators. Chemical castration involves giving offenders medication to suppress sexual urges and reduce the risk of reoffending. The treatment is already used on a voluntary basis alongside psychological therapy for some prisoners, but ministers have been considering whether it should be made compulsory in certain cases. Ms Mahmood announced back in May 2025 that the scheme would expand from four prisons to 20 as part of a wider crackdown on dangerous offenders. Most read in The Sun At the time she also confirmed the Government was actively examining whether mandatory chemical castration could be introduced for the most serious sex offenders. The policy stems from recommendations made by former Tory justice minister Sir David Gauke in his independent sentencing review. Supporters argue the drugs can help reduce the risk of repeat offending when combined with rehabilitation programmes. But critics have raised ethical concerns over compulsory medical treatment and warned the medication is not suitable for every offender, particularly where sexual crimes are driven by violence or power rather than sexual compulsion. Mr Lammy’s remarks suggest ministers remain committed to exploring the tougher approach despite the controversy surrounding the proposals. 2 comments2