Mixed messages on youth crime were sent out today when a youth justice chief vowed to reduce the number of under-18s being jailed - despite the clampdown on knife crime.

The Head of the Youth Justice Board, Frances Done, says too many young offenders are locked up and not enough community sentences were handed out.

40% rise in youth violence

She quoted a report showing a 40% rise in violent offences by youths from 40,000 in 2004 to 56,000 last year.

Her sentiments are in stark contrast to the government and Mayor Boris Johnston's fresh crackdown on youth knife crime. New sentencing guidelines mean anyone aged 16 or over in England and Wales found with a blade should be prosecuted - not simply given a caution.

'Intensive fostering'

Ms Done instead called for more community service orders, highlighting an 'intense fostering' pilot project that assigns 'support teams.' She calls it, 'a very rigorous regime.'