HC Deb 07 November 1955 vol 545 c147W
53. Mr. K. Robinson

asked the Attorney-General to what extent, and for how long, it has been the practice for verbatim transcripts of the evidence to be made in trials for murder; and to what extent such transcripts are available for study by members of the public.

The Attorney-General

By virtue of the Criminal Appeal Act, 1907, a shorthand note is taken of the proceedings at all trials on indictment, and since that year a transcript has been furnished to the Court of Criminal Appeal on all appeals and applications for leave to appeal against conviction for murder. A transcript is also supplied for the use of my right hon. and gallant Friend the Home Secretary when he requires one. The distribution of transcripts is restricted by the Criminal Appeal Rules and they are not available for study by members of the public.