PRISON was once considered something of a punishment but now a night in the cells is followed by a 'customer satisfaction' survey, with those detained in custody asked to rate 'services' on offer behind bars.

Devon and Cornwall police are now giving out hotel-style questionnaires to prisoners who are detained in police cells.

Detainees are invited to judge the quality of a variety of aspects of their incarceration, including food, how 'safe' they felt, cleanliness, lighting and air temperature, and provision of towels.

What justification is there, to allow Council Tax monies to be wasted in this manner when people, especially pensioners, live on or below the Government's own poverty level of £165 and struggle to pay their Council Tax bills.

Instead of Council Tax payers paying to keep these people in comfort, the detainees should be made to pay for the accommodation and the mess and damage they cause.

One of the desk sergeants is allegedly reported to have said to one of his 'guests': 'I hope your stay was a pleasant one, sir, and no doubt we will see you again in the very near future'.

No wonder there is little deterrent to the drunkards and criminals today.

This is liberalism gone too far.

The do-gooders have been let loose again.

Surely these people can come up with something better to waste our money on?

Bernard O'Neil

Secretary

Launceston & District Over 50s Voice