Overview

• Justice Secretary David Lammy said a south-west trial was "positive" and confirmed new trials in the North West and North East, taking the scheme to as many as 20 prisons.
• About 6,400 offenders will be eligible to access the medication on a voluntary basis alongside psychological programmes.
• Ministers say the drugs limit "problematic sexual arousal" and the expansion follows recommendations from the independent sentencing review.
• Officials acknowledge the evidence base is limited and that the treatment is not suitable for some offenders, including those motivated by power and control rather than sexual preoccupation.
• The medication reduces libido and is reversible after stopping, with reported side effects such as depression, hot flashes, anemia, and increased cardiovascular and bone risks.