Jersey 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.

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

The Education Committee is opposing that plan but admits there is a need for some extra secure accommodation.

The committee has set up a building design team which is carrying out a feasibility study into building a new unit.