6 July 2012
Responding to the news from the Crown Office (COPFS) on 3 July that there has been an investigation into the conduct of Scottish banks which has been live for “some time”, Scottish Labour’s Shadow Minister for Legal Affairs Jenny Marra MSP has today written to the Lord Advocate asking a number of questions to determine the extent of the investigation.
Jenny Marra said:
“Everyone in Scotland wants to be reassured that all avenues are being taken to ensure that any criminal behaviour within banks based here in Scotland are fully investigated.
"My questions will help shed light on what the Crown Office has done to date.
“We need to ensure that any hint of criminality in our banking system is examined by the relevant authorities and action taken where there is evidence of crimes having taken place.”
Amongst other questions, the Lord Advocate has been asked to confirm:
*The number of Crown Office Procurator Fiscal Service staff working on the case :
*When the investigation was opened
*In light of recent developments, whether additional COPFS staff will be provided to the investigation
*What the COPFS believes to be a reasonable timescale for a decision whether to prosecute will be made
*What charges are being considered, or are the basis for investigation
*If any potential witness or suspect has been formally contacted and/or questioned.
*If any formal searches of offices or residential addresses have been undertaken
*What steps have been taken to preserve evidence, both electronic and physical