The controversial rule could apply even when the thief is a persistent offender who has breached community sentences in the past.
Sentencing advisers to the Sentencing Advisory Panel suggested jail should be reserved for cases with 'aggravating' factors such as violence.
The British Retail Consortium is understood to be disgusted by the plan, maintaining it will send thieves the wrong message.
More than 9 million shop thefts are committed every year, costing retailers at least£600 million.
No comments yet