Hanging In The Balance: A History Of The Abolition Of Capital Punishment In Britain

Hanging in the Balance traces the history of capital punishment in the United Kingdom from ancient times to the modern day — through periods of reform until hanging for murder was finally abolished by Parliament in 1969. It describes in detail the Parliamentary and public debates, and notes the stance taken by organizations and individuals (including Sydney Silverman MP). The book collates data and references not previously brought together — and in exploring the underlying issues and recurring arguments about deterrence, retribution, and expediency, it provides an invaluable resource.