Public must have confidence in bail process

10/12/07

Margaret Smith MSP has welcomed the announcement of a shake up to the bail process in Scotland.

The shake up is aimed at toughening up the system and increasing public confidence in the process. Pubic safety will now have to be taken into account and anyone convicted of violent or sexual offences will only get bail in exceptional circumstances.

Commenting, Mrs Smith said:

“The public must have confidence in the bail process and this shake up will help to make that possible.

“These changes make it clear that public safety must be taken into account, and that repeat offenders who have been charged with violent and sexual offences will be denied bail.

“I welcome these changes which are a result of legislation passed by the previous administration.”