The MOJ launches its promised consultation into the Oversight and Regulation of Private Prosecutors

The MOJ yesterday launched its promised consultation into the Oversight and Regulation of Private Prosecutors: Oversight and regulation of private prosecutors in the criminal justice system consultation – GOV.UK.

There is much to digest, but a potentially significant exclusion from any potential curtailment of the right to bring a private prosecution is provided for individuals (but not corporates) who are themselves victims of crime:

 ‘We consider that the right of victims of crime to commence criminal proceedings provides an essential route to justice and do not seek to curtail the ability for an individual to bring a prosecution on their own behalf in any way. Individuals who bring a prosecution on their own behalf are therefore out of scope of the proposals in this consultation.’

Responses to the consultation are due by 8 May.