§ Mr. CohenTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what recent representations he has had about cases of intimidation of witnesses in major crime trials; and what proposals he has to combat this intimidation.
§ Mr. JackThe Government are aware of concern about the intimidation of witnesses in criminal trials and occasionally receives representations both on the general issue and in relation to specific cases. Such intimidation amounts to a serious criminal offence punishable by a 385W maximum of life imprisonment. The investigation of alleged offences and, where necessary, the protection of witnesses, are operational matters for the chief officer of the police force concerned.
I also refer the hon. Member to the reply given to a question from the hon. Member for Coventry, South-West (Mr. Butcher) on 28 January at column 789, and to the replies given to the hon. Member for Stretford (Mr. Lloyd) on 15 March at columns 41 and 68.