Mandatory terms in CLP discussions

The CLP will make the reintroduction of mandatory sentencing a key plank in its election campaign, it was learned last night.

This is despite statistics released yesterday showing crime is falling across the Territory.

Party sources told the Northern Territory News last night leader Denis Burke outlined the plan at a meeting in Alice Springs this week.

One said: "Law and order is going to be the main thrust at the election.

"And mandatory sentencing will be reintroduced."

Mr Burke last night refused to rule out the re-introduction of mandatory sentencing, if the CLP wins the election.

But he said the party would be tough on crime.

"You would be wrong, at this stage, if you said that Burke was going to introduce mandatory sentencing," he said.

"Whether or not we need to bring in mandatory sentencing is something I will leave until the election."

Mandatory sentencing legislation was introduced in the Territory in March 1997.

Adults convicted of a first property offence were jailed for a minimum of 14 days, three months for a second offence and 12 months for a third offence.

Juveniles between 15 and 17 were detained for a minimum of 28 days for a second property offence.

The laws were scrapped after the Martin Labor Government was elected in 2001.

Mr Burke said the release of CLP election policies, including law and order, was imminent.

He said the policies would also target itinerants -- foreshadowing the development of a new Public Order Act.

"You can expect a very tough law and order stance," he said.

"That means dealing forcibly with anti-social behaviour, particularly itinerants and people who are defecating and urinating in public, hanging around shopping centres and begging.

"We have had enough of it -- and people want something done.

"What you are seeing now won't be tolerated in the future."

Newshawk: http://www.napnt.org
Pubdate: Sat, 19 March 2005
Source: Northern Territory News (Australia)
Author: Paul Dyer
Copyright: 2005 Northern Territory News
Contact: ntnmail@ntn.newsltd.com.au
Website: http://ntnews.news.com.au/