But facing criticism over such an open-ended form of detention, Mr Jones sought to clarify what flexibility the police needed in such cases.

BBC: RELATED BBC SITES

In France, no form of preventive detention is available for offenders under the age of 16, except for the most serious crimes (rape, murder, armed robbery).

ECONOMIST: France

For years, the police have been complaining that they can do little to control hooligans when no form of preventive detention is available for anyone under 16 other than for the most serious crimes (murder, rape, armed robbery).

ECONOMIST: France

The government is offering safeguards in the form of regular judicial review of any extended detention and an annual report to Parliament with the opportunity for a debate.

BBC: Analysis