HC Deb 17 May 1982 vol 24 cc25-6W
Mr. Morgan

asked the Attorney-General how many civil servants are employed in the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions; and how many of them had practical experience of criminal law and procedure before appointment.

The Attorney-General

On 1 April 1982 there were 222 civil servants employed; of those 70 were professionally qualified on appointment.

Mr. Morgan

asked the Attorney-General what was the total cost of running the offices of the Director of Public Prosecutions during (a) 1980–81 and (b) 1981–82, excluding the fees paid to counsel nominated to prosecute cases for the Director of Public Prosecutions.

The Attorney-General

During 1980–81 the total cost was £2,586,000. For 1981–82 the total cost was £2,799,000.

Mr. Morgan

asked the Attorney-General what was the total amount paid by way of fees to counsel nominated to prosecute cases for the Director of Public Prosecutions during (a) the financial year 1980–81 and (b) the financial year 1981–82.

The Attorney-General

During the financial year 1980–81, £3,178,484 and for 1981–82, £3,810,130.

Mr. Morgan

asked the Attorney-General what are de minimum academic and professional qualifications, of those civil servants in the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions described as professional officers.

The Attorney-General

All professional officers are barristers or solicitors and are recruited through the Civil Service Commission.