§ Lord Dholakiaasked Her Majesty's Government:
How many cases are currently being considered by the Criminal Cases Review Commission; what is the average time taken in reaching a decision; and how long it would take to clear the backlog. [HL2517]
§ Lord Williams of MostynI understand that, at the end of June, 997 cases were awaiting detailed review by the Criminal Cases Review Commission, and 281 cases were subject to detailed review and investigation. Between April 1997 and March 1998, the average length of time taken to reach a decision on cases (other than those which the commission determined did not meet the eligibility criteria laid down by the Criminal Appeal Act 1995) was 122 days. As with any caseworking operation, there are likely always to be some cases which, following initial consideration, will be awaiting detailed review.