Tougher sentences for jealous ex-partners who kill

Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Jealous ex-partners who kill their victims will receive tougher jail terms as part of what the Government said is its continued crackdown on violence against women. After an independent review into domestic homicide sentencing by barrister Clare Wade, the Government said it is implementing two new statutory aggravating factors, meaning judges must consider stronger sentences for murders involving strangulation or when the killing is connected to the end of a relationship. The Law Commission report that this review is based on is narrow focused and only looks at legal structures, not sentencing and procedures.” They said the Government is “squandering a massive opportunity to bring all of our archaic homicide laws, sentencing and procedures into the 21st century”. Welcoming the sentencing review, they said: “Because of our dogged pursuit for justice, answers, accountability and change it appears as though some progress is being made.” Lord Chancellor and Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood said: “I fully recognise the concerns raised around homicide law and sentencing, but these are incredibly complex issues and previous tinkering is what has led to the current disparities, so it is right that the Law Commission takes a comprehensive look at it.” Alex Davies-Jones, the minister for violence against women and girls, said: “The level of violence against women is a national crisis which this Government is determined to tackle, and that includes ensuring the punishment fits the crime for the most abhorrent crimes.