Baby P's mother would face life in jail under tougher child cruelty laws if abuse was committed today

A new law that strengthens penalties for child cruelty, will see abusive parents face life in jail.

Those that bring about or allow the death of a child in their care, such as the mother of Baby P, will be eligible for a life sentence not just a 14-year maximum term.

Moreover, maximum sentences for letting or causing serious physical harm come to a person under 16, will also be hiked from 10 to 14 years.

These changes come from Justice Secretary Dominic Raab's proposed new legislation.

The family of six-year-old Tony Hudgell campaigned for stricter terms after his birth parents abused him so badly both his legs had to be amputated. They both received ten-year sentences.

In 2008, the mother of Baby P, Tracey Connelly, pleaded guilty to causing or allowing the death of a and was jailed for a minimum five years. In October 2013 she was let out, but was sent back behind bars within 18 months, after being charged with selling indecent images of herself.

Mr Raab stated: “The law must provide maximum protection to the most vulnerable and no one is more vulnerable than a young child. I pay tribute to the courage of young Tony Hudgell and his adoptive parents.”

Paula Hudgell, Tony Hudgell's adoptive mother, said: “We are delighted that Tony’s Law is being backed by the Government. It’s been our hope since those who abused our son were jailed in 2018 that more could be done to protect other children, the most vulnerable members of our society.

“I can’t thank the public enough for the support they have shown through this nearly four-year campaign, but especially thanks to Tom Tugendhat [the Tory MP] who has worked tirelessly with me. Also my friend Julia Roberts, a court reporter, and my friends and family. It was definitely a team effort.

“This is for Tony and all the babies and children that suffered or lost their lives at the hands of their abusers.”

The changes will be brought in as amendments to the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill.