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EU plans for criminal rights information must not lead to harmonisation
Brussels, 20th July 2010
Plans published by the European Commission, which ensure that accused people have access to information regarding their rights, will be useful for Britons travelling abroad,Timothy Kirkhope MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group justice and home affairs spokesman, said today. However, he warned that they must not be a smokescreen for harmonisation of criminal systems.
The proposals would ensure that Europe's 37 million tourists and 110 million business travellers, if accused of a crime, are provided with a 'Letter of Rights' in their language providing them with details of their rights. Suspects will also have to be informed of the case against them.
Mr Kirkhope said:
"If this proposal remains simply about giving people information regarding their rights then it will be beneficial to Britons travelling abroad. However, it must not be seen as a move towards an EU common criminal system. Information is important and useful but harmonisation of criminal rights is unnecessary and unacceptable.
"The UK already informs people of their rights, in up to 44 languages, so these plans should bring the rest of the EU up to our standards.
"As more of us live, work and travel around the EU it is important that we are given the tools necessary to defend ourselves when accused of a crime."
Contact: ECR Press Office- James Holtum - +32 473 861 762
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