Public backs return of death penalty in UK amid rising crime fears

Public sentiment in the United Kingdom regarding the death penalty has shifted significantly in recent months, particularly in light of recent violent incidents, including the tragic Southport attack. A poll conducted by the think tank More in Common highlighted that 55 percent of Britons support reinstating the death penalty for certain serious crimes, reflecting an increase from 50 percent recorded in the previous survey conducted in autumn 2023. Notably, support among younger voters—millennials—showcased an even stronger trend, with 58 percent advocating for its reintroduction, while only 27 percent opposed it. The rise in support for capital punishment is largely attributed to the public's reaction to heinous acts, particularly the sentencing of Axel Rudakubana, who attacked a children's dance party in Southport, leaving three children dead and several others injured. The case ignited a national debate on the appropriateness of current sentencing laws, especially considering that Rudakubana, due to his age, was not eligible for the most severe sentencing options available. This incident has galvanized public opinion, encouraging more people to consider the death penalty as a viable punishment for particularly atrocious crimes such as child murder and terrorism. Polling organizations, including YouGov, corroborated the findings with their independent research, revealing varying levels of public support for the death penalty across specific crime categories. While overall support is at 55 percent, support for executing multiple murderers and terrorists was notably higher, reaching around 70 percent. This demonstrates a clear divide in public opinion depending on the nature of the crimes, indicating that the public is more amenable to capital punishment in cases perceived as especially gruesome or violent. Despite the evident shift in public attitudes, the UK government remains steadfastly opposed to reinstating the death penalty. A spokesperson reiterated that the matter is considered settled and pointed out that Parliament has consistently rejected proposals to reintroduce capital punishment over the past few decades. Political representatives, including some who align with public sentiment, have expressed frustration at the government's stance, arguing that the interests and opinions of the electorate are being ignored. The prevailing view among Westminster politicians diverges sharply from that of a substantial portion of the public, reflecting an ongoing tension between legislative attitudes and public opinion on justice and punishment in the UK.