Tony's Law will see the maximum jail term for those convicted of causing or allowing the death of a child increase from 14 years to life, bringing it into line with sentences for murder and manslaughter. The maximum penalty for those convicted of child cruelty will also rise from 10 years to 14 years.

       Tony was just four weeks old when he was admitted to Evelina London Children's Hospital in Southwark, London, with multiple fractures, multiple organ failure and sepsis after being tortured by parents Jody Simpson, 24, and Tony Smith, 47. He lost both legs.

       They were each sentenced to the maximum term available of 10 years and will be eligible for early release in September next year after serving half their sentence.

       Tony now lives with his adoptive parents Paula and Mark Hudgell in Kent and last year raised over ￡1.5million for the Evelina by walking 10km on his prosthetic legs.

       Paula, 53, has led an unwavering campaign with Tonbridge and Malling MP Tom Tugendhat to bring in harsher punishments.

       She said: "We knew we could not do more in Tony's case… but we felt that 10 years is far too lenient for such an awful crime and we wanted to do more to protect other children ？ the most vulnerable members of our society. Tony's Law will do just that. We are delighted.

       "I can't thank the public enough for the support they have shown, but especially thanks to Tom Tugendhat who has worked tirelessly with me, also my friend Julia Roberts and my friends and family.

       "This is for Tony and all the babies and children that suffered or lost their lives at the hands of abusers."

       Tony's amazing achievement led to a Pride of Britain Award, as well as recognition from the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, and more recently, a prestigious British Citizen Youth Award.

       Dominic Raab, Secretary of State for Justice, said: "The law must provide maximum protection to the most vulnerable… I pay tribute to the courage of young Tony Hudgell and his adoptive parents."

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