LONDON -- The basic objectives of a judicial sentence of imprisonment are deterrence, rehabilitation and punishment. To deter criminals, it is first necessary to arrest them and ensure that those who are guilty are convicted. The criminal must then recognize that imprisonment, which means in the first instance loss of liberty, is sufficiently unpleasant to make him or her want to avoid such a sentence in the future.
The second objective must be rehabilitation to help the criminal behave acceptably in society upon his release from prison. This means providing educational facilities in prisons and opportunities for productive labor. There should also be psychological treatment for criminals and, where appropriate, religious instruction.
Punishment is demanded by victims and by society, but it must be commensurate and generally regarded as acceptable in the circumstances. In particular, it must not be cruel. Thus corporal punishment must be outlawed. Denial of alcohol, effective bans on smoking and drugs and limiting leisure are essential elements in any prison regime.