HC Deb 13 July 1998 vol 316 cc4-5
3. Mr. Derek Wyatt (Sittingbourne and Sheppey)

If he will make a statement on the Government's plans for the penal system. [48395]

The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Mr. Jack Straw)

Serious, dangerous and persistent offenders should be sent to prison and should be subject to constructive regimes in a secure and well managed environment. Prison may not, however, be the most effective option for less serious offenders. Our priorities are tough punishment in custody and in the community in ways that carry public confidence and reduce offending. We are looking at options for closer and more integrated working between the Prison Service and probation services.

Mr. Wyatt

I thank my right hon. Friend for that reply. Does he agree that community punishment needs the confidence of the community?

Mr. Straw

Yes.

Sir Sydney Chapman (Chipping Barnet)

Does the Home Secretary agree that detection and prosecution of those who commit crimes is of paramount importance, along with deterrence? Can he assure the House that there will be the closest possible co-operation between the police, the Crown Prosecution Service and the courts in tackling crime?

Mr. Straw

I would like to give that assurance, and to say that over the past 15 months, the Attorney-General, the Lord Chancellor and I have worked hard to bring about closer collaboration between the police, the CPS and the courts and to set up joint planning arrangements. My right hon. and learned Friend the Attorney-General recently published the results of the Glidewell inquiry, which should ensure major reforms in how the CPS relates to the police, including the establishment of coterminous boundaries.