CPS Statement on HMCPSI Performance Assessment Report of Brent

16/03/2010

Following publication of the HMCPSI performance assessment report of Brent, Borough Crown Prosecutor Kwame Biney said:

"Case preparation and progression is an important aspect that we are urgently working to improve. A comprehensive review of our systems of work at Brent commenced in January 2010 and we are already securing improvements in timeliness of review and decision making.

"We have recently signed a Witness Charter of commitments with the Police and the courts to assist and safeguard witness attendance at court. We are training staff to become paralegal officers and assistants to increase our coverage of Crown Court cases and enable better and more thorough preparation and progression of Crown Court work which in turn will result in more successful prosecutions. 

"Our procedures regarding disclosure will be looked at urgently and all staff are being reminded of their responsibilities in providing unused material.

"Ensuring those who are a victim of crime or who witness crime are kept informed about the progress of a case is of vital importance to the Crown Prosecution Service. We will prioritise the need to ensure that applications for special measures are submitted in time, so that people giving evidence are given every help they need in court.

"A London wide review of resourcing in each borough is currently in progress and will be completed shortly. This will ensure we have the right number of people in place to deal with the workload. Proper resources and clear structures and processes will improve case preparation, ensuring we have the strongest cases possible when we get to court and providing a better service to victims and witnesses. I am confident that will see conviction rates rise in both the Magistrates and Crown Courts.

"Although the move to Wembley Police station last year led to an unsettling period for all involved, it is hoped this co-location with the police will lead to many improvements in the way we work. We hope to continue and build on the strong working relationship we have with the police, resulting in better case management and, hopefully, an increase in the number of successful outcomes.

"There have been challenging times for the CPS in Brent and improvements are needed but I am hopeful that this report will signal the way forward. The Inspectorates findings make clear what aspects of our work we need to prioritise.

"My team and I are dedicated to prosecuting thoroughly crimes committed in Brent, ensuring that offenders are brought to justice and that the people of Brent have confidence in their Crown Prosecution Service."

Ends