CJI reports on PPS progress to implement Starmer Review recommendations
10/10/2017
CJI Chief Inspector Brendan McGuigan has published an assessment of work undertaken by the PPS to implement the recommendations in the 2015 Starmer Review. View report page.
The review by Sir Keir Starmer, KCB QC looked at the PPS' handling and conduct of two related sexual abuse and terrorism cases which did not proceed. Inspectors from CJI with support from colleagues from Her Majesty's Crown Prosecution Service Inspectorate in England and Wales conducted the independent review of progress at the request of Barra McGrory QC, Director of Public Prosecutions.
The CJI review found four recommendations had been achieved; four substantially progressed; and one where limited progress had been made.
Mr McGuigan said while he acknowledged the steps taken by the PPS to implement the recommendations of the Starmer Review, the PPS was on a journey which was not yet complete.
"Further work is required by the PPS to address inconsistencies in how it communicates with victims and witnesses; the consistency and level of empathy contained within letters sent to victims and witnesses; and how and where prosecutors record decisions they make and discussions prosecutors have with prosecuting counsel about cases," said Mr McGuigan.
Mr McGuigan welcomed the work carried out by the PPS to improve its case planning and strategic thinking around complex cases and the establishment of a Serious Crime Unit to deal with the most serious cases including murder, manslaughter and sexual offences.