More than 40,000 people a year - nearly one third of all the people who appear before the courts of this country - are remanded in custody. And more than half are not eventually sent to prison - either because they have been found innocent, or their crime does not warrant prison. Too often, say critics of the system, magistrates unquestioningly accept objections to bail and remand in custody, on what is described as 'a nod from the police.' But those concerned with law and order say: how do you ensure the bringing to trial of those prepared to ignore the law? How do you protect the public? So what are the conditions for those who find their application for bail refused? - and what ether system could serve instead?