SNP continue drive to empty Scotland’s jails

The SNP Government's drive to empty Scotland's jails continues apace, as from today courts will be encouraged to consider imposing a Community Payback Order as an alternative to prison sentences of less than three months.

Scottish Conservatives are intent on repealing the abolition of short term sentences in the next parliament.

John Lamont MSP, Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Justice, said:

"The SNP Government has got its priorities wrong.

"There is no doubt that vandals and other low level offenders can be effectively punished by atoning for their sins in the community. But the SNP Government, backed by the Lib Dems, has now put in practice plans that will empty our jails.

"Amongst those who will now be spared jail and qualify for so-called community payback are a fourth time drunk and disqualified driver, a knife carrier, someone guilty of domestic violence and a small time drug pusher – all with previous convictions.

"A month ago we found out that in almost two thirds of local authorities, community sentences aren't starting on time. This system is set to be put under even more pressure now, so for Kenny MacAskill to say he is starting to get the balance right between jail and community sentencing is just nonsense – in soft-touch Scotland the SNP is hell bent on emptying our prisons.

"We want community-based sentences to be tough, fast and effective. Until we have that robust system in place, custodial sentences of three months or less should have remained an option. Thanks to the Scottish Lib Dems and SNP they have not – although we will seek to repeal this dangerous measure in the next parliament."

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