§ 27. Mr. Cyril D. TownsendTo ask the Attorney-General when he expects to bring prosecutions under the War Crimes Act 1991.
§ The Attorney-GeneralThe Crown Prosecution Service has referred the cases of seven potential defendants to Treasury counsel for advice. The papers are voluminous and complex. They will be dealt with as quickly as possible.
§ Mr. TownsendWill my right hon. and learned Friend remind the House what changes will have to be made to the law of the land to deal with the problems of evidence in cases which go back more than 50 years? Is he yet in a position to explain that no one will go to prison after that very expensive and elaborate business?
§ The Attorney-GeneralTo take the second part of my hon. Friend's question first, as he will appreciate, the question of anybody going to prison will depend, first, on there being prosecutions and, secondly, on there being convictions. One should not jump those guns. Both will depend on evidence. A case will not be brought unless there is sufficient evidence to give a realistic prospect of conviction.
§ Mr. Alex CarlileWhether or not there are prosecutions, does the Attorney-General recognise that there is great concern that such matters have taken so long to be processed? Will he encourage Treasury counsel and 450 whoever else is involved to supply their opinions quickly, so that a decision can be reached with the utmost dispatch?
§ The Attorney-GeneralYes, indeed. I recognise and share exactly the hon. and learned Gentleman's view. It is well understood by Treasury counsel. It is a detailed matter, but it has been given close, urgent and careful attention.