The Justice Secretary has announced that a national pilot scheme for the chemical castration of sex offenders will begin in 20 prisons across England and Wales. This follows recommendations from an independent review into sentencing reforms, led by former Conservative minister David Gauke, aimed at easing prison overcrowding and reducing reoffending. The scheme will use medication to suppress sexual urges, particularly among offenders released early. Shabana Mahmood, the new Justice Secretary, said she is considering making the treatment mandatory, in combination with psychological interventions to address deeper behavioural issues.
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The move has raised ethical concerns among experts. Pia Sinha, head of the Prison Reform Trust, warned that mandating medical treatment places doctors in an “invidious position” and stressed that such decisions must remain with medical professionals. Gauke, while supporting the rollout, stated that chemical castration is not suitable for all sex offenders and that further evidence is needed to fully understand its long-term effectiveness. He highlighted that most offenders are eventually released, and it is vital to use all available tools to minimise the risk of future harm.
Chemical castration involves administering medication—typically via pills or injections—to reduce testosterone levels and suppress sexual drive. The treatment is reversible, unlike surgical castration, but carries risks such as depression, weight gain, and cardiovascular issues. Experts say that while such drugs can help manage sexual arousal, they do not address all causes of sexual offending. Professor Don Grubin of Newcastle University warned that any government-mandated use of these drugs would raise concerns about informed consent and the proper role of medical practitioners.
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Internationally, countries like Germany, South Korea, and certain US states offer chemical castration either voluntarily or as a condition of parole. Although studies have shown a reduction in sexual drive and offending in some cases, there is no conclusive international data on its overall impact. Critics argue that removing libido does not necessarily remove harmful intent, and that the approach must be used cautiously, alongside robust psychological support. The government maintains that the initiative forms part of a wider strategy to reform the criminal justice system and prioritise public safety.
