The most striking aspect of the data released by the Ministry of Justice on the justice system's response to the riots concerns juveniles. In the last 11 months, more than 700 children aged 10-17 have faced court for their part in the disorder. Of these, 218 were given custodial sentences averaging eight months. In mid-June, according to Ministry of Justice figures, 34 children were still being held on remand awaiting trial.

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