The Court of Appeal will review the sentences of teenage boys who were convicted of raping two schoolgirls in Hampshire but were spared custody, the Prime Minister has announced.

The case involves three boys who were convicted in connection with the rape of two girls, aged 14 and 15 at the time of the incidents. Two 14-year-old boys were convicted of rape in attacks that occurred weeks apart in Fordingbridge, Hampshire. A third boy, who was 13 at the time, was also convicted for his role in the second incident.

The decision to spare the convicted boys from custodial sentences has generated significant public attention and controversy. The Prime Minister confirmed that the sentences would be referred to the Court of Appeal for review.

The Court of Appeal has the authority to examine whether sentences are unduly lenient and can increase penalties if deemed appropriate. The referral process allows for judicial review of sentencing decisions in cases that raise public concern about the adequacy of punishment.

The case highlights ongoing debates about juvenile sentencing in serious criminal cases and the balance between punishment and rehabilitation for young offenders. The victims were schoolgirls at the time of the offenses, which occurred in the Hampshire town of Fordingbridge.