HC Deb 15 January 2002 vol 378 cc189-90W
Mr. Drew

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans he has to re-examine the methods for the operation of the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme and in particular the restrictions placed upon those individuals who have previously had criminal convictions on receiving compensation. [27018]

Mr. Keith Bradley

All aspects of the scheme were re-examined following a major public consultation launched in 1999, and a number of significant changes and improvements were brought into force with effect from 1 April 2001. There are no plans for further re-examination, though the general operation of the scheme is kept under continuing review.

Previous convictions do not automatically or permanently preclude payment of compensation. In assessing applications, the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority and the complementary independent Appeals Panel take into account other relevant factors. Convictions spent under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 must be disregarded.