Police and Justice Bill

Let us hope they have the relevant advice and the good sense to do that where it is right to do so. We are on the same side, but for some people, it is much better if the thing is disposed of properly. All of us want the proper protections to be in place so that the right result is achievable even if it is not always achieved in the justice system. So far, I have looked at all the procedures from the point of view of the defendant, who may or may not be guilty. But one’s overall concern is still with the victim, as the noble Baroness says—the victim and the public. There is accountability to the victim and the public which sometimes only a court appearance can bring. We must get the right balance and make sure that we do not avoid public accountability through a court appearance where that is the right thing to do. I welcome the opportunity to look at these matters during the summer. In the mean time, I beg leave to withdraw the amendment. Amendment No. 191C, as an amendment to Amendment No. 191B, by leave, withdrawn. [Amendments Nos. 191D to 191J, as amendments to Amendment No. 191B, not moved.] On Question, Amendment No 191B agreed to.