// BBC UK NEWS — CRONACA
Parents could lose benefits or face prison for child's crimes, minister says
Parents could lose their benefits or face prison sentences for their children's crimes under reforms to the youth justice system, a minister has said.
Youth Justice Minister Jake Richards told the Times newspaper the system "should hold parents to account in a proportionate way for ensuring that they play their role in keeping communities safe".
His comments come after the government set out plans in May to strengthen and expand Parenting Orders, which can currently compel parents or guardians to address their child's behaviour by attending counselling sessions or face fines.
Richards said prison sentences would only apply "in the most extreme cases" and would be up to judges' discretion.
He described the proposed changes in England and Wales as part of a "carrot-and-stick" approach.
"Parenting orders are going to make sure that parents are more involved in the process by which we try to turn around young offenders," Richards told the Times.
"Yes, that will have some stick. It could be custodial, or docking benefits - ultimately it will be up to a judge. But we want them to be more involved and that comes with responsibilities as well."
Critics of the proposals say engaging with parents on a voluntary basis is generally more effective in building trusting relationships and providing support.
Jess Mullen, chief executive of the Alliance for Youth Justice which represents more than 70 organisations that advocate for children, previously questioned how putting parents in prison would provide "stability or support for the child".
Andrew Neilson, director of campaigns at the Howard League for Penal Reform, told the BBC: "Reforming parenting orders in this way risks being ineffective at best and counter-productive at worst.