Leroy Logan MBE argues that prisons do act as an effective deterrent for many members of society

Last week’s Oxford Union debate featured some eminent guest speakers, with compelling arguments and laughs which brought the house down. But the motion was more serious, examining whether prisons are truly the best way to deal with criminals and protect society.

While it is undeniable that the justice system needs change, the abolition of prisons is a misstep in the process of reform. Prisons are an incredibly necessary part of society and serve to uphold law-abidance and public safety by deterring and containing the most dangerous criminals. The justice system relies heavily on prisons to serve as beacons of consequences that prevent criminal behaviour, and abolition would not only displace and release those who choose such behaviour but also would pose a threat to the very provision of safety within the public sphere.

Leroy argued that prisons do act as an effective deterrent for many members of society. He believes that we shouldn’t abolish a fundamental part of the country’s infrastructure just because it requires reform and that doing so would risk the displacement of hundreds of prisoners.

The Oxford Union voted against the motion ‘This House Would Abolish Prisons.’