Written question asked by Lord Campbell-Savours (Labour), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Baroness Scotland of Asthal (Labour) on Thursday, 23 November 2006.

Crime: Rape

Question: asked Her Majesty's Government:Whether they will review the extent to which the code of practice governing the conduct of identity parades is adhered to, in the light of the investigation of the case of Warren Blackwell and allegations of rape made against him; and

Answer: It is a matter for the chief officer of police for the force area concerned to ensure that police officers and police staff comply with relevant statutory provisions. The status given to evidence gathered during an investigation is a matter for the court. The Code of Practice on the Identification of Persons (Code D) is issued under Section 66(1)(b) of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE). The code is subject to ongoing review in the light of legislative change, case law and learning from operational practice.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 133; 687 c13WA
Session: 2006-07
Subjects: Admissibility of evidence Codes of practice Rape Trials Identification parades
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk