Talking Point: Do we have a right to know why Jon Venables is back in prison?

Jon Venables and Robert Thompson were just 10 years old when they abducted and murdered two-year-old James Bulger in 1993. Their case became one of the most significant in English criminal history. Both were released under new identities on lifelong licence in 2001, but Venables has recently been returned to custody for a serious breach of parole. Once again the public is outraged, but do we really have a right to know what he's done?

When discussing such an emotive case, it's important to put it into context. Discuss how this case had a profound impact on the youth justice system and was hugely significant in shaping how young people are treated in the penal system. Ask young people to consider the nature of this case and discuss why child murders evoke such extreme public emotions and strong opinions. Ask young people to imagine how those affected by this crime may feel. Suggest a fictional role play where they put themselves in the places of those involved. How would they react if they themselves were involved in this situation?