§ Mr. Proctorasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will issue to all magistrates a circular drawing attention to the cost saving between custodial and community service sentences for non-serious offenders as set out in the answer to the hon. Member for Billericay of 16 January; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MellorWe have no plans to issue a circular specifically drawing attention to these figures. Magistrates will, however, be aware of the importance we attach to the use of non-custodial penalties where appropriate; and their substantial and increasing use of the community service order in recent years indicates their confidence in it as an alternative disposal.