"the prisons are full up" - typical answer from TROB, build some more then and put these lowlives away. Better still outsource the long term inmates to another country, say Turkey, and make some room. Save a fortune and create capacity at the same time.
"Over 75% of people sentenced to even a very short time in prison NEVER get a paid job again."
I'd be very interested to know how you get that. For one I doubt very much anyone has ever collected the stats over the whole of the life of ex prisoners. Secondly I know a few people who did short spells and one who did a fair stretch - all have paid employment.
"So a suspended sentence is a major deterrent "
Absolute nonsense.
"Community service , unpaid work for the good of the community is a good alternative to prison."
But these only stand a chance of working if it is enforced. Many dont bother turning up and often those that do end up doing very little. Nothing is done to enforce it - just the same as fines.
"Another reason for avoiding prison if possible is that is is VERY expensive"
Well if it wasn't for bleeding heart liberals like you this could be solved easily. Make jails like a jail - ruddy uncomfortable so no one wants to return.