HC Deb 20 May 1997 vol 294 cc34-5W
Mr. McNamara

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received regarding resources available to the Criminal Cases Review Commission; and if he will consider increasing the number of members appointed to serve on its board. [153]

Mr. Michael

[holding answer 19 May 1997]: My Department has had extensive discussions with the Criminal Cases Review Commission on a range of issues relating to its establishment, including the resources it needs. There are no plans at present to increase the number of members appointed to the Commission, but this will be considered if it seems desirable in the light of experience.

We have previously expressed considerable concern at the delay in setting up the Commission and hope the Commission itself will wish to inject a greater sense of urgency into the review of these cases and will keep the work of the Commission under close scrutiny.