§ Julie MorganTo ask the Solicitor-General what the policy of the Crown Prosecution Service is in connection with allegations of child sexual abuse. [14668]
§ The Solicitor-GeneralThe CPS applies the evidential and public interest tests set out in the code for Crown prosecutors in all cases referred to it by the police so that it can make fair and consistent prosecution decisions.
Children form a class of victims and witnesses to whom special care should be given. CPS policy in relation to child abuse cases has three key principles: expedition, sensitivity and fairness. Delay should be avoided in all cases involving a child victim or witness. Child witnesses should be afforded as much protection as necessary to enable them to give their evidence in a way that both maintains the quality of that evidence and minimises the trauma suffered by them. CPS policy emphasises that the best interests of the child should be the first, but not the final, consideration when assessing the public interest.
The CPS works together with other statutory agencies in accordance with the inter-agency guidance "Working Together to Safeguard Children".