HC Deb 12 May 1993 vol 224 cc468-9W
Mr. Bennett

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if the decision regarding the recommended minimum length of sentence to be served in the case of Hosni E. Farhat was made by the then Home Secretary; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Jack

It is assumed that by "recommended minimum length of sentence", the hon. Member refers to the punitive element of a discretionary life sentence which must be served to satisfy the requirements of retribution and deterrence. This period was previously known as the "tariff".

Following advice from the trial judge and the then Lord Chief Justice, the Secretary of State decided in 1985 that the first review of Mr. Farhat's case by the parole board should take place after 17 years in custody. From that, Mr. Farhat will have concluded that the punitive element of his sentence was at least 20 years.

Under the transitional provisions in schedule 12 to the Criminal Justice Act 1991, the Secretary of State issued a certificate to Mr. Farhat in August 1992 notifying him that the relevant part of his sentence—as the punitive element is now known—is 20 years.

Mr. Bennett

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received regarding the case of Hosni E. Farhat.

Mr. Jack

My right hon. and learned Friend and his predecessors have previously received a number of representations alleging that Mr. Farhat was wrongfully convicted. These were fully considered but they brought to light no grounds for intervening in the case. Further representations have recently been received from Mr. Farhat and these are now being considered.

Mr. Bennett

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what review has been undertaken of the intelligence information relating to the case of Hosni E. Farhat.

Mr. Jack

I do not know what specific information the hon. Member has in mind, but in considering the latest representations about the safety of Mr. Farhat's conviction, my right hon. and learned Friend will take account of any relevant information which is available to him.