Government ministers have joined criticism of a crown Court judge's sentence after two brothers who broke asbestos safety laws escaped jail.

Neil and Andrew Medley admitted allowing their Guiseley-based firm Medley Ltd to carry out asbestos removal work without a licence -- an offence carrying a two-year prison sentence.

They also admitted hiring two 15-year-olds and a 14-year-old during asbestos-stripping work at a Yeadon factory.

Neil Medley also admitted three other asbestos-related offences.

The former directors escaped prison and were given community service orders by Judge John Cockroft at Leeds Crown Court last month.

Now Health and Safety Minister Alan Meale and Environment Minister Michael Meacher have joined a protest at the sentences imposed.

Mr Meale said: "I and ministers were appalled at the light sentences given in the Medley case.

"It is particularly disappointing given a recent Court of Appeal decision where the judge expressed regret at the low levels of Health and Safety penalties generally.

"Health and Safety crime is taken very seriously indeed by ministers who have made their feelings about this case known to the Health and Safety Executive."

Passing sentence, Judge Cockroft said it would be "intellectually dishonest" to jail the pair for the Health and Safety offence because he considered the employment of the youngsters was more serious even though it carried no prison sentence.

His decision angered anti-asbestos campaigners who are trying to get a total ban on the use of the substance.

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