Sir.–Since The Gazette started publishing the Basingstoke Magistrates’ Court lists, I have been totally astounded at the sentences/punishments passed.

It seems these days that it is a much bigger offence to not send in a form to the DVLA or catch a train for one stop without paying than it is to beat up someone or steal.

Surely there is a need to keep minor administration offences out of court and give meaningful punishments to those offences against the person.

No more slaps on the wrist. Let's have meaningful punishments.

–Chris Harris, Sheppard Road, Basingstoke.