Policy Exchange

"Analysis of Ministry of Justice figures shows that one in five sex offenders was given a caution along with more than a quarter or those found guilty of violence against the person.

"More than half of offenders given cautions had a previous conviction or caution to their name, even though they are only meant to be given to first-time offenders. Cautions do not count as convictions but they do appear on criminal records as they involve admission of guilt.

"Karen Sosa, the report's author, said: 'The evidence points to a continued problem of widespread inconsistency in their application and in the enforcement of out-of-court disposals.'"

Read the full article on The Daily Telegraph's website