High-visibility jackets defended

Critics have warned wearing the vests will encourage attacks

A government advisor has defended the use of high-visibility orange jackets for offenders on community schemes.

The probation officers' union has criticised the move, saying offenders had been abused.

On a visit to Nottingham, Louise Casey, director general of the Neighbourhood Crime and Justice Unit, said most people were in favour of the jackets.

"The vast majority of British public think if people break the law, they face a tough consequence," she said.

"And if one of those tough consequences is that they have to wear an orange jacket whilst they're paying back to the community, then so be it.

"We're quite a forgiving nation as long as we think people have been punished properly."

Ms Casey went out on patrol with police during her visit and planned to meet community leaders to see how they were tackling anti-social behaviour.

"I'm here to listen to residents to see if there's more that can be done," she said.

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