AN MP from the district is demanding Government meet its promise to double magistrate sentencing powers before the end of the Parliament.

With just three weeks left until MPs leave Westminster ahead of the May 7 election, Shipley MP Philip Davies said time was running out to fulfil a promise made by the Prime Minister.

Mr Davies said: “I have long argued we should increase magistrates' sentencing powers to 12 months.

“It will save money by cutting down on expensive Crown Court trials where people are only given short sentences and I believe the move will be popular. People want those who commit crimes to be punished not let off with a slap on the wrist.”

Speaking in Parliament he asked William Hague when the change would come into effect.

Mr Davies added: “It was reported in August last year that the Prime Minister had promised to double sentencing powers for magistrates from six months to 12 months by the end of this Parliament. This was a very welcome announcement, but given we are rapidly running out of time, when will this be actually brought into effect in the last few weeks of this parliament.”

Mr Hague said he would ensure the Ministry of Justice replied directly to Mr Davies setting out a time frame