CDS News

The LSC met with representative bodies, HMCS, CPS and MoJ on Monday 9 November.

The group agreed that the LSC must ultimately be able to confidently validate claims against HMCS’ case management system (CREST). 

A key reason why this has not been achieved appears to be general confusion over the definition of PPE.  Until there is a sufficient level of confidence, the LSC is required to validate against objective evidence submitted with each claim. 

The group discussed the PPE process that was introduced on 1 May 2009 and all agreed that the benefits of this process are starting to be realised as each party becomes accustomed to the process. 

The group discussed possible long-term improvements to this process and agreed the following actions:

• Recommend a change to the Criminal Procedure Rules (CPR) to follow the example in the Civil Procedure Rules in relation to service of evidence.  A sub-group will produce a paper for the CPR Committee.
• Prepare specific PPE guidance for providers, HMCS, CPS and other prosecuting authorities that clarifies the PPE definition and process.  This guidance will be circulated to all parties by the end of November
• Consider consolidating the Criminal Defence Service (Funding) Order 20074 
• Report isolated problems to the relevant party to improve and continue educating all parties on the PPE process.  For example, where providers have not received a copy of the committal bundle or NAE cover sheet throughout the course of their client's case or it does not contain the PPE figure and it was served after 1 May 2009, please inform the LSC who have agreed to raise concerns directly with the CPS. 

The LSC recognises that there is still work to be done but is committed to improving this process through mutual co-operation with all parties. 

The LSC will continue to provide updates on the progress of the above and future actions of the group. 

Further Information

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