The inquiry was established amid concern about the public's protection from serious violent and sexual offenders who are freed after serving a fixed sentence.

Convicted criminals could be subject to tougher supervision

Announcing the committee's findings, Lord MacLean said: "We believe that a new sentence is required to address the risk presented by these offenders.

"This sentence, which we call an 'order for lifelong restriction', would ensure that high risk offenders are subject to control and supervision for the remainder of their lives.

"It would only be imposed after careful and thorough assessment of the risk they are considered to present of reoffending.

"We also believe that a new body should be created, the risk management authority.

"This body would oversee the management of high risk offenders and would develop best practice in risk assessment and management throughout the criminal justice system.

"We also make proposals to deal with serious offenders who have personality disorders or other mental disorders.

Repeat offenders

"These involve more comprehensive assessment of risk and of treatment needs, and better arrangements for transfers between prison and hospital."

The committee said the measures would have helped deal with offenders like John Cronin.

Cronin, 29, committed a string of offences involving women and is considered one of the country's most dangerous sex offenders.

John Cronin: Public safety fears

Police, however, are powerless to do anything because he is not subject to registration as a sex offender because he committed his sex attack before the register became law, and his more recent crimes have not fallen within the terms of sexual offences.

He is also no longer subject to a court supervision order meaning he can move freely about the country, prompting fears for public safety.

The MacLean Committee report has been welcomed by politicians.

Justice Minister Jim Wallace said: "This is such an important issue that we want to canvas views from all interested parties.

Action call

"I am therefore putting the report out to consultation immediately. I hope those with an interest will let us have their comments on all the issues covered in the report.

"Our final proposals will be produced once we have considered the report and responses to the consultation exercise."

Scottish National Party justice spokeswoman Roseanna Cunningham said: "The SNP welcome the MacLean Inquiry report. Obviously, we must study its proposals in detail.

"But having waited some time for its publication, we will be looking to the Scottish government to move swiftly in order to act on its recommendations, so that we achieve reform and better protection for the public as quickly as possible."