Written question asked by Lord Allan of Hallam on Thursday, 6 May 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 28 June 2004. It was answered by Baroness Harman (Labour) on Monday, 28 June 2004 on behalf of the Solicitor General.

Solicitor-General

Question: To ask the Solicitor General, what guidance she issues to the Crown Prosecution Service in respect of calculating the value of archaeological objects that form part of a prosecution under heritage legislation.

Answer: Mr. Allan: To ask the Solicitor General what guidance she issues to the Crown Prosecution Service in respect of calculating the value of archaeological objects that form part of a prosecution under heritage legislation. [172210] The Solicitor-General: The Crown Prosecution Service has not issued guidance on the valuation of objects which form part of a prosecution for offences under legislation designed to protect the national heritage. Crown prosecutors review all cases submitted to them by the police, in accordance with the Code for Crown Prosecutors. Prosecutors assess whether there is sufficient available evidence on all the elements of the offence to provide a realistic prospect of conviction. They will ask the police to provide further evidence where necessary, which may include expert valuation if appropriate. Where there is sufficient evidence to provide a realistic prospect of conviction, prosecutors will then go on to consider whether a prosecution is required in the public interest.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 172210; 423 c1W
Session: 2003-04
Subjects: Archaeology Cultural heritage Crown Prosecution Service Evidence Prosecutions Valuation
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk