The Government's introduction of new sentences for coward punches is being described as merely cosmetic. 

It's announced specific offences for striking a distracted victim - which could carry a sentence of life imprisonment, if fatal. 

But Law Association Vice President Julie-Anne Kincade told Ryan Bridge she understands people have been looking for reform in this area. 

She doesn't think it will make a huge impact, as the changes will add one year to the maximum penalty of offences which already exist.

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