robert peel

• What was the version number of the document?

  Version 1.1
• What time period does the study material cover?

  1700-1900
• In which century did Robert Peel have a significant influence on punishment and law enforcement?

  19th century
• What major change did Robert Peel implement regarding capital offences?

  He reduced the number of capital offences.
• What was the purpose of the Metropolitan Police Act passed in 1829?

  To set up the first professional police force in London.
• How did the law treat murder compared to petty theft?

  Both could receive the death penalty.
• What was the situation regarding capital crimes after 1810?

  There was an unprecedented number of capital crimes.
• What was the common practice regarding the death penalty for petty crimes?

  It was rarely used as judges found it unfair.
• How many capital crimes did Peel reduce in 1825?

  By 100 capital crimes.
• What was the central aim of the Metropolitan Police officers?

  To prevent crime and disorder impartially.
• Who influenced Peel's prison reform efforts?

  Reformers such as Elizabeth Fry.
• What were the key provisions of the 1823 Gaols Act?

  • Chaplains should regularly visit prisoners
  • Gaolers should be paid
  • Prisoners should not be put in chains
• What limitation affected the impact of the 1823 Gaols Act?

  There were no inspectors to enforce the act.
• What did Peel do in 1822 regarding policing in London?

  He set up a parliamentary committee to investigate policing issues.
• What event helped Peel get the Metropolitan Police Act through parliament?

  The crime wave resulting from the economic downturn in 1826.
• How were recruits for the Metropolitan Police selected and trained?

  They were carefully selected and well trained.
• What was the typical armament of Metropolitan Police members?

  They were usually unarmed.
• What was the focus of the Metropolitan Police's patrolling strategy?

  To patrol areas where crime was high.
• What was the outcome of the Metropolitan Police's efforts in reducing crime?

  They successfully reduced street crime and disorder.