Prosecutions may be abandoned because of legal defect

THE State faces an avalanche of compensation claims from people convicted over the use of angel dust, the banned animal growth promoter.

People found guilty of related offences — including some who were jailed — may have their convictions overturned because of a legislative flaw.

Last week, the Supreme Court ruled a government minister has no power to make amended regulations under the Animal Remedies Act 1993 to give effect to EU Council directives.