§ Mr. LlwydTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many representations have been received about the unitary fine system operating in magistrates courts; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. JackThe provisions in the Criminal Justice Act 1991 relating to unit fines were implemented on 1 October 1992. Between that date and 28 February 1993 some 77 letters have been received from right hon. and hon. Members specifically about the sentencing provisions of the Act; 52 of these letters were concerned either in whole or in part with the unit fines scheme. Figures on the number of letters received from members of the public about the scheme are not readily available from correspondence records and could be compiled only at disproportionate costs.
The new sentencing framework, including the unit fine scheme, is being carefully monitored, and we will consider fully any representations made about it.