27th June, 2005
The prison rate in the UK is one of the highest in Europe, according to new figures.
International Centre for Prison Studies (ICPS) data estimates that in the UK, one person in 704 is imprisoned, representing a 15 per cent rise since 1999.
This is in spite of fewer people being sent to jail for crimes committed, according to a separate study.
In 1954, one in 18 burglaries led to a prison term. Today, that figure has decreased to only one in every 59 cases.
In light of these figures and the suggestion that more burglars are walking the streets, homeowners should ensure that their house and contents insurance is up to date and covers the total cost of their belongings.