The law says no-one under the age of 15 can be given a custodial sentence, but young people can be held in custody while awaiting trial or sentencing.

Deputy Bob Hill wants to change the law so children as young as 12 can be sent to the Greenfields remand centre.

But the Finance and Economics Committee says the site cannot house more than 10 youths without money being spent on it.

'Society failed'

Mr Hill says courts should be able to impose custodial sentences to persistent offenders as young as 12.

His call comes as Jersey magistrate Ian Le Marquand says the system for dealing with young people who commit crimes is failing them and society.

The Finance and Economics Committee does not accept the deputy's claim that the plans will not cost any more money.

The committee also wants the Children's Executive to consider whether the scheme should be a priority.