Crime and punishment in modern Britain, c.1900 - EdexcelFactors affecting crime and punishment, c.1900-present

The 20th century saw changes to crime and punishment in modern Britain because of developments in technology, a change in the role of government and changes to attitudes within society.

New technologies

New technologies, especially the development of computers and the internet, have led to changes in crime, punishment and law enforcement in modern Britain. Criminals have started using computers and other new technology to commit fraud and identity theft.

The day-to-day work of the police force has also changed. Policing now involves the use of:

• CCTV to catch criminals
• breathalysers to test drink drivers at the scene
• biometric screening
• computer databases to store information
• police cars to travel within the community

Developments in technology have also enabled punishment to change. For example, some criminals are now monitored using an electronic tag rather than having to serve their whole sentence in prison.

World Wars One and Two

The need for soldiers in World Wars One and Two led to a change in the definition of crime. When conscription was introduced, it became a crime not to undertake military service when required. Those who avoided military service, referred to as conscientious objectors, were punished.

These conflicts also led to changes in the attitudes of society, and the use of the death penalty was questioned. The events of World War Two and the Holocaust led to Britain signing the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948. It also promised to protect the lives of its citizens and not subject people to cruel punishment.

The welfare state

The development of the welfare state since c.1900 has changed the role of government in Britain to one that protects the welfare of all citizens. This has led to changes in the punishment of criminals.

Today, the government tries to focus on eliminating the causes of crime and reforming the character of criminals. This contrasts with the harsh punishments that were previously handed out to deter criminals. Those who are convicted of crimes may be supported with education, projects within the community and mental health treatments. In addition, the government uses custodial sentences for young offenders as a last resort.

Multiculturalism

Modern Britain is multicultural. This has meant the definition of crime needed to be changed to protect all citizens from discrimination and violence. The 1968 Race Relations Act was introduced with the aim of ensuring that people in Britain are protected from any discrimination within the justice system.