§ Mr. DarlingTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what proposals he has to amend section 80 of the Criminal Justice (Scotland) Act 1980 so as to substitute the age of 16 for the age of 21 years; and if he will make a statement.
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonMy right hon. Friend has no plans at present to amend section 80 of the Criminal Justice (Scotland) Act 1980.
§ Mr. DarlingTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what proposals he has, following the issue of Crown Office circular No. 2025/1, on 20 December 1991, to amend the law relating to offences listed under statute or under common law; and if he will make a statement.
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonMy right hon. Friend has no plans at present to amend the law in this area.
§ Mr. DarlingTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a further statement on his prosecution policy in relation to prosecution of offences under section 80 of the Criminal Justice (Scotland) Act 1980, and similar offences under the common law.
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonProsecution policy is a matter for my noble and learned Friend the Lord Advocate. A review of prosecution policy in relation to such offences which was instructed by the Lord Advocate in December 1991 is continuing.