This won't stop people committing this easy crime

Dionne Jarvis from Lower Cambourne had failed to declare that she was living with her partner between September 19, 2007 and May 25, 2008, and claimed more than £3,000 in housing benefit and just over £600 in council tax benefit.

She was given a conditional discharge for 12 months and ordered to pay £200 costs to the council. She also has to pay back the additional benefit.

• People convicted of benefit fraud who don't receive a custodial sentence should have to do unpaid work.
  
  Benefit thieves should also have to repay twice what they've stolen, and should not be eligible for any further benefits – including tax credits - until they have.
  
  If you don't punish people convicted of an easy crime, the offence will continue to look attractive.