Whilst crime is falling, offenders committing serious offences are more likely to be sent to prison and for longer; Sentencing Guidelines make clear that custodial sentences should be reserved for the most serious offenders. Sentencing is a matter for our independent courts, which take into account all the facts of each individual case. Offenders with no previous convictions, are generally less likely to receive an immediate custodial sentence than a repeat offender. The information requested is contained in the table below. Number and proportion of offenders(1) with no previous convictions or cautions(2) who were sentenced to an immediate custodial sentence for a first offence in a magistrates court, 2010 to 2014. Year ending December Immediate custodial sentence All disposals(3) Proportion given an immediate custodial sentence 2014 931 54,030 1.7% Source: Ministry of Justice, Police National Computer (PNC) (1) Figures are based on counting the number of sentencing occasions for offences committed by offenders which were prosecuted by police forces in England and Wales including the British Transport Police. (2) Figures are based on counting the number of occasions on which offenders have previously received a conviction, caution or the youth caution for any offences recorded on the Police National Computer, including some offences committed outside of England and Wales. Where there were multiple offences on the same occasion, only the primary offence as recorded on the Police National Computer would be counted. (3) Includes some deferred sentences that the police will update on the Police National computer at a later date when the final decision is known.