WE are told that the crime rate is down. One only has to read this paper and every night it is full of crime, mugging, burglary, arson, car crime and con-people. And it will get worse, as our prisons become full.

It is no good giving these perpetrators a slap on the wrist, a good sharp shock is what is needed and let's get rid of the Human Rights brigade, in my book they have a lot to answer for.

And what about the human rights of the victims? They could be traumatised for life or worse.

Crime down - rubbish.

H HAMER, Lowther Place, Blackburn.