§ Mrs. Ann TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what evidence he has that an increase in the average length of prison sentences is effective in reducing the total volume of crime.
§ Mr. John PattenThe main purpose of a prison sentence is to punish the offender. The courts and prisons can make only a limited contribution to reducing crime. But long sentences for serious crimes restrict the opportunties for further offending by those who receive them, and may deter other potential offenders.