Scotland to become a "sanctuary nation" for criminals?

From The Scotsman:

THOUSANDS of criminals, including thieves, housebreakers, vandals and fine-defaulters, will be spared prison sentences under radical plans announced yesterday by the new Scottish Executive.

Kenny MacAskill, the justice secretary, said he wanted to adopt a more liberal approach to penal policy.

Apparently Mr. MacAskill thinks that Scotland needs a great many more thieves, housebreakers, vandals and fine-defaulters. Because Scotland will surely get them if the perceived cost of committing any of those crimes is reduced.