Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask His Majesty's Government what plans they have to replace custodial sentences of 12 months or fewer with community sentences.

The Independent Sentencing Review has recommended that the Government limit the use of short custodial sentences, a position we support.

We know that community orders and suspended sentence orders can more effectively reduce reoffending when compared to short sentences of immediate custody. While short custodial sentences may be useful in some circumstances, they often fall short in the meaningful rehabilitation of offenders and have a limited deterrent effect. Instead, more of those individuals should be dealt with through tough community sentences that incentivise them to turn their lives around.

Following the Independent Sentencing Review, we will bring forward legislation, in the coming months.