Legislation / Legal

ScotGov: New bail provisions, which will mean tougher punishments for those who breach their conditions, have come into force in Scotland.  The overall aim of the bail reforms is to leave the accused in no doubt as to the responsibility placed on them when granted bail, so that breach of bail reduces.
 
Reforms contained in the Criminal Proceedings etc. (Reform) (Scotland) Act 2007 include:
* Placing on statute that courts must take into account public safety when deciding whether to grant bail to an accused
* Courts will only grant bail to someone accused of serious violent or sexual offences or drug dealing with previous similar convictions in exceptional circumstances
* Requiring the court to always give reasons for their bail decisions
* Increasing the maximum penalties for breach of bail conditions from 3 months imprisonment to 12 months (and from two years to five years for certain bail breaches in solemn (sheriff and jury or High Court) cases)
 
Changes to direct measures (previously known as alternatives to prosecution) and fines enforcement will commence in March 2008, as will the programme of phased court unification.
Press release ~ Criminal Proceedings etc. (Reform) (Scotland) Act 2007 ~ Bail and Remand Action Plan ~ Report of the Sentencing Commission for Scotland on the use of bail and remand
 
Home Office: Following replies from police, collectors, traders, victims' groups and martial arts enthusiasts, the Government is publishing the summary of responses of a consultation earlier this year and announcing its intention to add samurai swords to the Offensive Weapons Order, which will result in the import, sale & hire of samurai swords being banned from April 2008.  
 
This will include exemptions for collectors of genuine Japanese swords and swords used by martial arts enthusiasts.
Press release ~ Summary of responses ~ Best Practice Guidance on knife crime for police forces
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