Annual Report 2006-08

The future programme has been influenced by the findings of the Crerar Review with an expected increase in thematic reports either singly or jointly with other bodies. This continues a trend commenced in 2006 with a Joint Thematic Report on the Provision of Services to Witnesses (in conjunction with Victim Support Scotland and the Witness Service).

It is intended during 2008 to publish 2 further Area Reports and 2 Thematic Reports one on Asset Recovery in conjunction with Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and a further report on Summary Justice Reform with particular emphasis on the use of increased powers of Procurators Fiscal to offer non-court disposals. This latter has been the subject of much media focus and our inspection should give an independent view on the operation of the new system based on an extensive examination of cases across the country.

Further work will be shaped by developments in the Criminal Justice System including likely joint work with Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary on sexual offences (a Bill having been introduced on this topic at the Scottish Parliament) and the use of bail where concerns have been expressed about the use of bail. As indicated above in terms of the Crerar Review an examination of Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal self assessment models is likely.