§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department to what extent his policy of reducing and suspending jail sentences on convicted criminals to reduce the pressure on prisons will apply to non-convicted persons imprisoned and awaiting trial.
§ Mr. MayhewMy right hon. Friend shares the hon. Gentleman's concern that the number of unconvicted persons detained in prison should be as low as is consistent with the public interest. We are satisfied that the Bail Act 1976 makes adequate provisions for the release of such persons on bail where there is no reason to the contrary.