The age of criminal responsibility in Scotland is set to rise from 8 to 12, by new legalisation being drafted at the Scottish Parliament. This has come after a consultation whereby over 95 percent of people agreed with this proposal. This will bring Scotland in line with the rest of the UK and most of Western Europe.

This will also bring it in line with the current minimum age of prosecution in Scotland which makes more sense. Early years minister Maree Todd said: “All children deserve the best possible start in life and this legislation marks a key milestone in Scotland’s journey to ensure children are respected and valued.” This is viewed by most of Scotland as a step in the right direction.