Written question asked by Harry Cohen (Labour) on Tuesday, 3 December 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 17 December 2002. It was answered by Baroness Harman (Labour) on Tuesday, 17 December 2002 on behalf of the Solicitor General.

Solicitor-General

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, when he will publish the report on deaths in custody which was consulted upon last year; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Harry Cohen: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department when he will publish the report on deaths in custody which was consulted upon last year; and if he will make a statement. [86115] The Solicitor-General: In May 2002 the Attorney General issued a consultation paper on the prosecution process in cases arising from a death in custody. During May and June he received many thoughtful responses, including the views expressed by those who attended a seminar which he held in May. The Attorney General had originally hoped to make a statement before the House rose in July, but was compelled to conclude that to do justice to this difficult exercise in the light of further developments following another case, the issues would need further work. He continues to be engaged on the project and expects to be able to publish a statement in the New Year.

Secondary information