§ Mrs. Curtis-ThomasTo ask the Solicitor-General what(a) internal and (b) external reviews have been conducted on the conduct of prosecutions, on what dates and by whom in the last three years. [35950]
§ The Solicitor-General[holding answer 14 February 2002]Each prosecuting authority has in place systems that support performance reviews generally, and case specific reviews when appropriate. HM Crown Prosecution Service Inspectorate has a rolling programme of inspections covering the performance of all CPS Areas over a two-year period, and it undertakes thematic reviews of areas of prosecution work three or four times a year. With effect from 1 April it will assume responsibility for the inspection of Customs & Excise prosecutions.
There is no central log maintained of individual internal and external reviews of the conduct of the prosecution by prosecuting authorities operating within the jurisdiction of England and Wales. Speedy collection and provision of this information could not be undertaken without disproportionate cost.