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Criminal Evidence (Witness Anonymity) Bill

I listened to the noble Lord, Lord Kingsland, with the greatest attention, as I always do when he is on his feet, and I agreed with 99 per cent of what he said. Somehow, it is necessary for us to establish—in legislation, by a strong statement from the Government or in the rules—that the orders should be used only in exceptional circumstances and in grave offences. I know the argument about gravity and the magistrates’ court; I accept all that, but that is really a matter for drafting. The issue of principle here is the circumstances in which these exceptional orders—they are exceptional—should be applied for and granted by judges. I hope that my noble friend will be able, in one form or another, to make a clear declaration to that effect.