Deaths in Custody

HL Deb 13 December 2001 vol 629 c237WA

Lord Brett

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they are satisfied with the current arrangements for prosecuting cases concerning deaths in custody. [HL1961]

The Attorney-General (Lord Goldsmith)

I am fully aware of the public interest issues of concern that arise when someone dies in custody, whether in prison or in a police station.

I have raised this important issue with the DPP and together we are reviewing the role of the CPS in the prosecution process to see whether any changes need to be made. If changes are needed, they will be made. If they are not, it will be important to reassure the public that the CPS deals with these difficult cases in an appropriate way.

In conducting this review, we shall look at the approach taken by the Law Officers, as well as by the DPP and the CPS. We shall also consult other relevant government departments, as well as non-governmental organisations with an interest. We expect to complete our review by 30 June 2002.