The Tories will today issue proposals to tighten the bail laws, arguing the system is allowing too many violent and persistent offenders to avoid prison. The opposition party will publish figures suggesting almost half those who jump bail are let off with a fine, averaging only £60, equivalent to the minimum penalty for failing to pay London's congestion charge. "The current system is not working - bail is too easily granted, frequently breached and improperly enforced," Nick Herbert, shadow justice secretary, said yesterday.

Jean Eaglesham