K. HARRIS seems to think there is an easy answer to crime today (Letters, February 17). He thinks the judiciary do not give appropriate sentences, yet the prisons are overflowing.
There are more prisoners in the UK than any other European country.
Some countries still cut off a thief's hand, yet there is still theft. There is no simple answer to the crime situation, but causes include lack of civic pride and respect for others.
This seems old fashioned today, but many people now break the law who would not consider themselves criminals.
How many law abiding citizens deliberately exceed the speed limit or deliberately drop litter? Pride in the community and respect is a quality that should be taught from an early age, by parents.
Unfortunately, some young people do not even have respect for their parents. The policy can only operate with the co-operation of the general public, something our chief constable, with her proposals, doesn't seem to realise.
Harry H Punter,
Corncroft,
Strensall, York.
Updated: 10:23 Monday, February 23, 2004
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