Howard League Scotland written evidence
Alasdair Hogg of SCRA stated—
When we look at development, particularly brain development and the ability to make good decisions, the evidence is that a person can be 25 or 26 before their brain is fully mature and developed.Education, Children and Young People Committee meeting of 22 March 2023, Col 2
As a consequence, while welcoming the increase in age to 18, organisations including the CYCJ and the CYPCS have suggested that it is the minimal acceptable age rather than the maximum age to define as a child within the justice system.Education, Children and Young People Committee meeting of 22 March 2023, Col 32 In their view, an increase to 18 is seen to be a "good start", rather than the end point.