§ Mr. Clinton Davisasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many defendants in courts in the Inner London area were acquitted or had charges against them withdrawn in the last 12 months.
§ Mr. CarlisleThese figures are not immediately available. I am writing to the hon. Member.
§ Mr. Clinton Davisasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will introduce amending legislation to enable costs to be awarded to a defendant in criminal cases where a summons or charge relating to an indictable offence has been withdrawn as opposed to dismissed.
§ Mr. CarlisleOn the information before my right hon. Friend, he is not persuaded that legislation is required.