PUBLIC opinion is wanted on Labour plans to tackle youth crime.

Pendle MP Gordon Prentice is canvassing views of his constituents on the party's new proposals, which have been outlined by Shadow Home Secretary and Blackburn MP Jack Straw.

"Youth crime is a major problem in Pendle as it is across the country," said Mr Prentice.

"But, as our new report shows, the present system is in disarray. It serves neither the need for crime control, nor the interests of the victims, the community or the offender. "Too many youngsters end up in prison because the present system fails to nip offending in the bud.

With our plans for youth employment and training, the youth service, truancy and drugs, Labour's new proposals should work to cut down the numbers of those who end up in a life of crime."

The proposals include repeat cautions replaced with a final warning, triggering intervention, a better range of non-custodial sentences, clearer court powers for using secure accommodation and a new National Board for Youth Justice.

"These proposals are out for consultation and I would welcome hearing the views of my constituents on them," said Mr Prentice.

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