Tougher penalties are already in place for sexual offences in the Crimes Decree.

Although people are calling for a review of the penalties, the offence of rape already carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment under the Crimes Decree.

The decree also states that a child under the age of 13 years is incapable of giving consent.

A penalty of 10 years imprisonment is also set for any person who assaults another with intent to commit rape.

The offence of attempted rape also carries a maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment.

Meanwhile, the Crimes Decree also has penalties set for householders permitting defilement of a child on premises.

The maximum penalty for this offence is 12 years imprisonment.