More of the UK’s most dangerous paedophiles face chemical castration after the Government confirmed the controversial scheme has not been abandoned. The plans were first announced by Shabana Mahmood, with current Justice Secretary David Lammy now hitting back at claims the move was dropped, revealing that the areas where the treatment is used have actually been extended.
The scheme was first launched in the South West of England but is now being rolled out across more parts of the nation. Chemical castration uses medications, often via injections or implants, to suppress sex hormone production and reduce arousal. Unlike surgical castration, it is fully reversible once the medicine is stopped and does not involve removing organs. However, some medical experts have opposed the move as they argue it is unethical, and some doctors would refuse to administer the medication.
After being asked by The Sun if the plan to roll out chemical castration at more prisons had been dropped, Mr Lammy said: “It has not been abandoned.” He added: “In fact, we’ve extended the areas in the country where this can be done. It’s important these dangerous individuals are kept under control.”
It is hoped that chemical castration will stop some of the country’s most dangerous paedophiles and sex offenders from reoffending. The treatment is already used on a voluntary basis for some prisoners.
It is used alongside psychological therapy, which helps control compulsive and intrusive sexual thoughts. Criminals convicted of grooming, child sexual abuse and rape will all be targeted by the scheme.
Ms Mahmood announced plans to expand chemical castration from four prisons to 20 back in May 2025. She said she would “make sure that is what happens”.
She said at the time: “It is vital that this approach is taken alongside psychological interventions that target other causes of offending, like asserting power and control,” she added.
“For some, offending relates to power, but for another subset of offenders, the combination of chemical suppressants and psychological interventions can, we believe, have a big and positive impact.”
While supporters argue the drugs can help reduce the risk of repeat offending, others have raised ethical concerns. Critics argue that compulsory chemical castration is not suitable for every offender, as some sexual crimes are driven by violence rather than arousal and impulses.