HC Deb 12 December 1963 vol 686 c118W
Sir G. Wills

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what matters he has referred to the Criminal Law Revision Committee since that committee completed its Third and Fourth Reports.

Mr. Brooke

Recently I asked the Committee to consider whether any revision of the criminal law was desirable to facilitate the continuance of a trial where a member of the jury dies or is for any reason discharged.

I am also asking the Committee to consider two further matters:

  1. (1) whether any revision of the law of perjury is desirable with reference to the case of a witness who makes contradictory statements on oath;
  2. (2) whether the law should be revised to make more effective provision to secure the attendance of witnesses in criminal cases before courts of assize and quarter sessions, and to provide a more appropriate sanction in respect of failure to attend.