CPS Statement on HMCPSI Performance Assessment Report of Hillingdon

16/03/2010

Following publication of the HMCPSI performance assessment report of Hillingdon, Borough Crown Prosecutor Melanie Parrish said:

"The report recognises that the boroughs caseload has increased significantly over the last year, with Crown court work up 34.8%, but that the increase has been managed and outcomes compare favourably with CPS London and national averages. 

"We have implemented a number of London-wide initiatives which are leading to performance improvements. As these become more familiar I am hopeful that case preparation and progression will continue to strengthen ensuring we have the strongest cases possible when we get to court.

"We have recently moved into Uxbridge Police Station as part of a CPS London initiative called Integrated Prosecution Team (IPT). 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.

"We have been rated fair for the service we provide to victims and witnesses and are rated second in the boroughs with the best levels of witness attendance but this will be among the aspects we seek to further improve. Attending court as a victim or witness can be very difficult and I want to make sure we have everything in place to make that easier for all involved.

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

Ends