§ 27. Mr. Bernard JenkinTo ask the Attorney—General what discussions he has had since 1 May with the director of the Serious Fraud Office concerning the future of the office. [7305]
§ The Attorney-General (Mr. John Morris)The director and I meet regularly to discuss matters of departmental interest. In 1996–97 the Serious Fraud Office had a highly successful year. Eight major cases were concluded, with 12 out of 14 defendants being convicted. The new director will continue to build on that foundation.
§ Mr. JenkinDo the Government have a strategy to rebuild the reputation of the Serious Fraud Office after it foundered on a series of high-profile cases during the past decade and earlier in this decade? May we have some idea of the kind of reforms that the right hon. and learned Gentleman would consider?
§ The Attorney-GeneralThe figures that I have just given the House speak for themselves. There have been difficulties in the past, but the hon. Gentleman will be aware that many of the cases with which the SFO has to deal are difficult and complex and need a great deal of investigation. Once they are prosecuted, of course, the SFO is in the hands of the courts. However, the hon. Gentleman should be reassured by the figures that I have given.