England and Wales judges told not to jail criminals as prisons full – report

Senior judge quoted by the Times says biggest concern' over guidance is those convicted of sexual assault likely to stay on bail

Judges have been told to delay the sentencing of convicted criminals currently on bail - including rapists and burglars - because prisons are full, the Guardian understands.

The guidance reportedly came from the senior presiding judge for England and Wales, Lord Justice Edis, on a private call with senior crown court judges.