IN response to Mr Pearson's letter (LET, November 30), apart from a few exceptional cases, life meaning life can put prison staff and inmates at risk as a killer has nothing to lose by killing again.

Release is the carrot, however galling that is.

The costs of guarding the 'exceptional' cases could not be borne for every convicted killer

It may not be fair but it is a measure designed to prevent further killings.

The case he cites is one where at least 20-30 years would seem more appropriate than a mere 12 years.

I can only assume the original sentence was flawed.

However, being due for release does not mean it will be grant6ed and we can only hope release is refused.

D PRATT (Mr), Plantation Street, Accrington.