Policing minister on knife crime and prison sentences

Policing minister Nick Herbert was challenged over a Tory commitment to jail people charged with knife crime, as he was asked why only 19 per cent of those found guilty had been sent to jail.

Mr Herbert said it was important that courts sent a message that knife crime was "totally unacceptable" and those convicted of using a knife should expect prison.

He was also asked about prison numbers, where he said that prison has not been working, and two-thirds of those released were back in prison within a year.

The minister said there were plans for drug-free wings and to reduce re-offending.

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