George Hepburne Scott discusses the sentencing of Axel Rudakubana on regional radio

Following the recent sentencing of Southport killer Axel Rudakubana, George Hepburne Scott has been interviewed by Radio News Hub on the nature of whole life orders, broadcast to over 400 regional radio stations.

George explained that, while many feel that the 52 year sentence given to Rudakubana was not enough, as the defendant was under 18 at the time of the offence the judge was unable to pass a whole life order by law.

He further notes that the judge was likely precluded from passing a sentence of 70 or 80 years as this would also, in effect, be a whole life sentence. The almost record 52-year-sentence was therefore the harshest the judge was able to impose, as the law does not offer any flexibility or discretion on this fact.

George went on to contend that this case has shown that public sentiment is that there should be greater leeway in the passing of such sentences, with Rudakubana only being eight days aware from turning 18, however it will ultimately be a matter for parliament to decide through legislation.

George’s interview was broadcast across regional radio stations through Radio News Hub, 24 January 2025, and can be found here.