§ Miss McIntoshTo ask the Attorney-General what recent representations he has received on his proposals to reform the Crown Prosecution Service. [80375]
The Solicitor-GeneralThere is continuing interest in the reform of the Crown Prosecution Service. The Attorney-General and I regularly receive inquiries and representations from hon. Members about the Service.
Sir lain Glidewell's Report on the Crown Prosecution Service made a number of recommendations aimed at reform of the Crown Prosecution Service. Additionally, the Government decided to re-structure the CPS into 42 geographical Areas to improve efficiency and accountability.
The Crown Prosecution Service is making good progress in considering and implementing the recommendations in Sir lain Glidewell's Report. Additionally, the new 42 Chief Crown Prosecutors are now in post to take forward the reforms that will improve efficiency.
§ Mr. BakerTo ask the Attorney-General what steps he takes to ensure that the Crown Prosecution Service gives due weight to environmental considerations in deciding whether to pursue a prosecution. [80379]
The Solicitor-GeneralA number of prosecuting authorities are responsible for the enforcement of cases involving environmental considerations. Agencies such as the Environment Agency prosecute a high proportion of such cases; the Crown Prosecution Service prosecutes offences investigated by the police. All prosecuting authorities must apply the Code for Crown Prosecutors when making the decision to prosecute. If there is sufficient evidence, environmental considerations will be a factor taken into account when deciding whether a prosecution is required in the public interest.