HC Deb 18 July 1984 vol 64 cc209-10W
39. Mr. Dalyell

asked the Solicitor-General for Scotland how many people have been released as a result of errors in the Crown Office in 1983–84.

The Solicitor-General for Scotland

I understand that the hon. Gentleman's question relates to accused persons who have been released from further criminal proceedings as a result of Crown Office errors. I am aware of two High Court cases where this has happened in the period 1983–84.

In one case a mistake in the preparation of the indictment resulted in the accused's service copy being served at the wrong address. In the other case, following on the non-appearance for trial of two co-accused, the trial of a third accused who did not appear was put off and re-started within the statutory 12 months time period.

43. Mr. Wilson

asked the Solicitor-General for Scotland if he will make a statement on the High Court trials recently abandoned or postponed as a result of Crown Office maladminstration.

The Solicitor-General for Scotland

I refer to the answers given by me today to the questions from the hon. members for Glasgow, Springburn (Mr. Martin) and Linlithgow (Mr. Dalyell).