§ 32. Mr. Pardoeasked the Attorney-General when he expects to receive the report of the Director of Public Prosecutions about the International Investors Group or its subsidiaries.
§ The Attorney-GeneralAn investigation into the affairs of the Group and its subsidiaries by the police and investigators of the Department of Trade and Industry, in consultation with counsel, is progressing. When these investigations have been completed, a report will be sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions for his consideration.
§ Mr. PardoeWould the right hon. and learned Gentleman confirm that the Director of Public Prosecutions has already, on the basis of a police inquiry report, stated his view that there is a prima facie case against the company and that a prosecution would be appropriate but that he has left it to the Department of Trade and Industry to initiate an action? Does the right hon. and learned Gentleman not think; in view of the somewhat embarrassing circumstances of this case, that he should himself initiate an action straight away?
§ The Attorney-GeneralThe hon. Gentleman is wholly wrong on both the matters that he raised in his supplementary question. These matters are under investigation by the Department and by the police under the directions of their Standing Council. That report will be received by the Director of Public Prosecutions. He has not yet received it. When he does, he will decide whether to prosecute.