§ 19. Mr. Silvesterasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he has completed his consultations on the question of giving further guidance concerning the basis on which costs are awarded to acquitted persons; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Elystan MorganNo, Sir.
§ Mr. Silvester rose—
§ Mr. MorganI am sorry. The Answer should have been, "Yes, Sir". There is a slight difference.
Guidance on this question was given by the Lord Chief Justice in a statement in the Court of Appeal on 16th February, 1968, which my right hon. Friend brought to the notice of the courts. I am sending a copy to the hon. Member.
§ Mr. SilvesterI was about to say, "Not good enough", but perhaps I should say, "Thank you very much". I shall study what the hon. Gentleman sends me with close interest because there is great concern among people who have had costs awarded against them that they are in fact being punished even though they have been acquitted.