The government is preparing to introduce legislation aimed at reducing the use of short prison sentences while strengthening community-based punishments.
Ministers believe the reforms will help cut reoffending rates by prioritising tougher community penalties over jail terms of a few months, which are often seen as ineffective.
The proposed laws are expected to be brought before the House of Commons shortly after the summer recess.
Officials argue the changes will ease pressure on prisons while delivering more meaningful rehabilitation, although critics are likely to question whether community punishments can provide a sufficient deterrent.
