Mr. BanksThe Secretary of State for the Home Department whether, in view of the increase in the number of cases of vandalism, he will make recommendations to magistrates to give minimum sentences at least requiring those convicted to pay in full for the damage they have caused.
§ Mr. Alexander W. LyonNo. Under the Criminal Justice Act 1972 magistrates' courts have adequate powers to make compensation orders. It would not be appropriate for the Government to seek to influence the sentences they impose.