Fine Defaulters and Low Level Offenders: Consultation Paper

HL Deb 28 October 1996 vol 575 cc8-9WA

Viscount Addison

asked Her Majesty's Government:

How many responses they have received commenting on the consultation paper Alternative Penalties for Fine Defaulters and Low Level Offenders.

Baroness Blatch

Of the 31 responses to the paper, 30 were from organisations and individuals with a direct interest in the criminal justice system.

There was overall support for the wider use of community penalties as proposed in the consultation paper. Seventy-seven per cent. of respondents supported community service and 58 per cent. supported curfew orders for fine default. Sixty—one supported community service and 51 per cent. curfew orders for persistent low level offenders.

We have considered the responses carefully in finalising the details of the proposals which are included in the Crime (Sentences) Bill, published on 25th October 1996.