DPP secrecy policy - Decision on consultation welcome

THE decision of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to consider reversing the controversial policy of refusing to explain his decisions should be warmly welcomed.

DPP James Hamilton has today published a consultation document inviting opinions in relation to proposals to alter the long-standing secrecy surrounding his office.

A six-week consultation period had begun with victims’ support groups, legal experts, law enforcement officers, and individuals. More than four years of research has gone into preparing the consultation document. This involved examining the practices of other countries with similar legal systems, such as Britain, Australia and Canada.