In December the UK Border Agency said it had met the "tough target" set to remove at least 5, 000 foreign criminals a year - including 50 convicted of either murder or attempted murder - and had staff working in prisons to speed up deportations.

BBC: Deportation delays 'costing ?10m'

But it would have been surprising if the ECB had opted for this kind of promise, which - once offered - would remove all incentive for governments to take tough decisions.

BBC: Draghi's message for artful euro-dodgers

Prison Reform Trust director Juliet Lyon said it was "perfectly reasonable" to remove subscription TV channels but there was no evidence to suggest that a "so-called tough approach" would improve rehabilitation.

BBC: Prisoners 'must work harder' for privileges