Lucy Letby: Criminals to be forced to attend sentencing hearings after baby killer refused to stand in dock

Criminals will be forced to attend sentencing hearings in court, including by force if necessary, under new guidelines announced this week. It comes after killer nurse Lucy Letby refused to attend her sentencing for the murder of seven babies and attempted murder of six more.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak confirmed plans to introduce the new law, which could see criminals face a longer stint in prison if they refuse to attend sentencing hearings, after calls from victims and families. No exact date has been given for the new law, but the Prime Minister said it would be brought in when Parliament resumes in the autumn.