Laertes accepts Claudius’ statement that Hamlet is their mutual enemy, but Laertes wonders why Claudius did not take action against Hamlet sooner. What are the two reasons that Claudius gives to explain his inaction in punishing Hamlet?

First, he says that Queen Gertrude is still enamored with her child and the lord needed to keep his sovereign cheerful. Second, he says that the individuals of Denmark love Hamlet and are eager to disregard his deficiencies/violations.

Explanation:

Claudius says that he didn't try Hamlet for two reasons, first, since his mom adores him so much, and second, in light of the fact that the individuals of Denmark are supporters of Hamlet.

In persuading Laertes, the King first tells the youngster that the Claudius was kept from rebuffing Hamlet since Claudius cherishes Gertrude without question (regardless of whether that be a fortunate or unfortunate thing), and she adores her child so much, that he can do nothing that she would be discontent with.  

The second explanation Claudius gives for not rebuffing Hamlet is his prominence with the individuals of Denmark. He says that the masses so respects Hamlet that would disregards his deficiencies, and that things the vast majority would make a decision to not be right, they would pardon for the good of Hamlet. Right now, individuals (who aren't generally attached to Claudius in the first place) would criticize the King, and Hamlet would go unpunished.