§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Attorney-General whether he will publish in the Official Report as much detailed information giving for as long a period as possible the number of cases where the Director of Public Prosecutions has been asked to investigate claims and charges against the police and the cases have not progressed for stated reasons, including the double jeopardy rule; in how many latter cases private prosecutions or civil actions have followed; and with what results in each stated instance.
§ The Attorney-GeneralThe information requested by the hon. Member cannot be given. The Director of Public Prosecutions does not investigate any allegations, whether against police officers or civilians. The double jeopardy rule, as the term is used in relation to complaints against police officers, is not a consideration that affects the Director's decision whether or not to institute criminal proceedings in cases that are referred to him, but refers to the institution of disciplinary proceedings, which are not a matter for the Director. No record is kept of private prosecutions or civil actions in respect of matters that have been referred to the Director.