An honest and tough approach to sentencing - Liberal Democrats

10.01.00am BST (GMT +0100) Thu 20th Jul 2006

The Liberal Democrats yesterday unveiling their new policy on sentencing, which will be more honest, simpler and tougher on the worst offenders.

Under the proposals confusion over life sentences will end, with the introduction of a Life Custody sentence under which life will mean life. The plans would also end automatic early release. No serious offender would be released without the agreement of the Parole Board and a judge. Other measures include amending the automatic discount for a guilty plea and non-custodial Public Punishment Sentences for some non-violent criminals.

Liberal Democrat Shadow Home Secretary, Nick Clegg MP said "Our proposals mean that sentences will do exactly what they say on the tin. For too long the Government has been talking tough on crime while second guessing the judges. The public has been left utterly confused. This is a balanced package which would ensure the most dangerous criminals do their time in prison, whilst finding new ways to deal with lesser offenders."

Liberal Democrat Shadow Attorney General, Simon Hughes MP said "Victims and the public have for too long seen sentences for criminals that say one thing and mean another. We need clarity in sentencing and the public need to have confidence that the most serious offenders will only be released when public safety permits. The Liberal Democrat sentencing code is a bold proposal for a new regime that works."