§ Lord Marlesfordasked Her Majesty's Government:
How many offenders in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland received community service orders and custodial sentences respectively in the most recent 12-month period for which such information is available and what plans they have to increase the number of offenders who are sentenced to community service orders rather than custodial sentences.
§ Lord Williams of MostynInformation is given in the table below.
Within the statutory framework set by Parliament, it is for the courts to decide the appropriate penalty. Non-custodial penalties play a vital role in punishing offenders for whom prison is not the most appropriate response. The Government are determined to ensure that community punishments are tough and effective so that they command the confidence both of sentencers and the public.
Offenders sentenced for all offences by disposal Country Year Total sentenced Community service order Immediate custody England 1995 1,267,268 45,312 74,608 Scotland1 1995 153,921 5,133 214,907 Wales 1995 87,026 3,025 4,529 Northern Ireland 1995 32,972 607 2,313 Northern Ireland 1996 30,676 645 2,168 1 To improve comparability excludes sentences imposed following breach of probation or breach of community service orders (normally included in Scottish figures). 2 Includes custodial sentences imposed following a sentence deferred for good behaviour.