They can be tried in their absence and of course they can be picked up and put into custody. We are trying to deal with a very large number of people who go through our court system, are held in custody—taking up valuable prison space—but who from the very beginning it is clear will not receive any kind of prison sentence. If people do not turn up, of course they are in danger of being either tried in their absence or picked up and held in custody. If people try to intimidate witnesses, they commit a further crime for which they will undoubtedly end up in custody. In many ways, both Justice and the noble Lord are straining at gnats here. We are trying to deal with the very bottom end of cases. I will reflect on what he said, particularly on the Keeling schedule, and come back on Report.
Clause 83 agreed.
Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Bill
Proceeding contribution from
Lord McNally
(Liberal Democrat)
in the House of Lords on Tuesday, 7 February 2012.
It occurred during Debate on bills on Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Bill.
About this proceeding contribution
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735 c249-50 Session
2010-12Chamber / Committee
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