Penny Booth: Well, no surprises there, then

Children on trial will always hit the headlines whether that means the broadsheets the tabloids or the subject of lawyers' conversations. Last week we had the decision over the two boys convicted of attempted rape: they are spared detention but have supervision orders which will mean strict monitoring of their activities and their behaviour. In 18 months the relevant legal teams will be able to apply to have the orders lifted if it is thought that the boys will not reoffend.

The boys' parents were given one year parenting orders (it takes longer in my experience) and will have to sign the sex offenders register (not at all sure what that will do as it certainly isn't fulfilling the original intention) on behalf of their sons. The home backgrounds leave something to be desired particularly if the media is to be believed in the case of the younger boy. Both boys were ten at the time of the...

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