HC Deb 01 February 1984 vol 53 c233W
Mr. Ernie Ross

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the average custodial sentence given by Scottish courts in length of time in the latest available year.

Mr. Ancram

During 1982 the average length of sentence of imprisonment in Scotland, including both direct sentences and imprisonment imposed in default of a fine or compensation order, but excluding life imprisonment, was 117 days. The corresponding figure for detention in a young offenders' institution was 123 days and, for detention of a child under sections 206 or 413 of the Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act 1975, 476 days.