Government Back Down on Corroboration
The Scottish Government’s plans to end the need for evidence in Scottish criminal trials to come from two sources have been put on hold in an embarrassing climb-down by Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill.
There had been fierce opposition from sections of the legal profession, who raised concerns of an increased risk of miscarriages of justice, and serious questions were asked by opposition parties, and some SNP MSPs.
Labour MSP Mark Griffin said:
“It is vitally important that we support the victims of crime in Cumbernauld and Kilsyth and across Scotland, but it is equally important that when passing legislation of this significance we get it right.
“Just a few weeks ago, Kenny MacAskill behaved in a despicable manner in the Parliament, attacking those of us who dared to question his approach to abolishing this significant piece of the Scottish criminal justice system as being part of a vast conspiracy because of the Referendum.
“This type of behaviour shows us the utter obsession SNP Ministers have with Independence, linking a very serious debate on criminal justice with the constitution.
“I hope that we can now work across all parties to ensure that victims receive justice whilst protecting the innocent.”
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