HC Deb 31 January 1977 vol 925 c9W
47. Sir John Hall

asked the Attorney-General what is the average length of time an accused person is remanded in custody before the case comes before the Crown Court; and what action he is taking to relieve the pressure on the courts.

The Attorney-General

The average length of time between committal and trial of accused persons remanded in custody is eight weeks in England and Wales, including London.

My noble Friend is concerned about any delay in bringing cases to trial in the Crown Court, and is taking such action as is practicable to minimise this, but a period of eight weeks is that which was considered reasonable by the Streatfeild Committee on the business of the criminal courts.