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<p>We are clear that sentencing must match the severity of a crime and public protection
is our priority.</p><p>The latest proven reoffending rate for offenders released from
sentences of six months or less in the quarter July to September 2017 was almost two
thirds (64.8%).</p><p>That is why, one of the first acts by this Prime Minister was
to order an urgent review of sentencing, which included looking at changes to sentencing
for the most prolific offenders which could help break the cycle of re-offending.
Based on the findings of this review, we have announced a Sentencing Bill, which will
contain proposals for community penalties that offer an appropriate level of punishment,
while tackling the underlying drivers of re-offending.</p><p>Custody should be available
as a last resort, but if we are to break the cycle of reoffending, solutions will
often lie in community sentences, including those which address offenders’ behaviour,
answer their mental health and alcohol or drug misuse needs, or provide reparation
for the benefit of the wider community.</p>
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