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The UK government is reportedly preparing to roll out a bold new initiative aimed at curbing repeat sexual offences—chemical castration for paedophiles and rapists.
According to Mail Online, the Justice Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, is actively reviewing plans to introduce the controversial treatment across 20 prisons in England and Wales, as a first step toward a potential nationwide programme.
Studies have shown that using certain drugs to chemically suppress sexual urges can reduce reoffending rates by nearly two-thirds, making it a powerful tool in tackling sex crimes.
A government source told The Sun:
“For too long, we have turned a blind eye to the threat sex offenders pose, considering the solutions too difficult or unpalatable. Shabana isn’t squeamish about doing what it takes to protect the public.”
Initial proposals for a small, voluntary pilot were reportedly scrapped for being too soft. The current plan appears to favor a more robust and far-reaching rollout.
What Is Chemical Castration?
Chemical castration involves administering a combination of drugs:
- One drug reduces testosterone levels, limiting sexual drive.
- Another targets and suppresses sexual thoughts.
This form of treatment is already used in parts of the United States, including California, especially for sex offenders released on parole. In Europe, countries like Germany, France, Sweden, and Denmark allow voluntary chemical castration, with some offenders even requesting it as a condition of release.
Public Opinion
A recent poll conducted in February by Find Out Now found strong public backing for the measure. Among voters under 30, a striking 67% supported chemical castration for sex offenders, while only 24% were opposed—signaling a generational shift toward tougher crime policies.
While the proposal is still under consideration, its introduction could mark one of the most aggressive legal responses to sex crimes in recent UK history.
