HC Deb 24 July 1996 vol 282 cc457-8W
Mrs. Dunwoody

To ask the Attorney-General when he expects to make a decision on whether to prosecute the master of the Bowbelle. [39455]

The Attorney-General

I refer to the written answer which I gave yesterday to the hon. Member for Southwark and Bermondsey (Mr. Hughes),Official Report, column 206.

Mr. Simon Hughes

To ask the Attorney-General when the Crown Prosecution Service received the transcripts of the evidence given at the inquest which followed the sinking of the Marchioness; what factors have prevented a decision being taken on whether to initiate a prosecution; when such a decision is expected; and if he will make a statement. [39017]

The Attorney-General

The transcripts became available in stages, the final instalment have being received on Friday 15 December 1995. The Crown Prosecution Service has sought the advice of senior counsel. The matter is complex but the Director of Public Prosecutions expects to issue her decision very shortly.