Union welcomes Blunkett boost for Crown Prosecutors - 11 June 2003

David Blunkett's proposals to boost the role and profile of senior Crown Prosecutors were today welcomed by the FDA. The Home Secretary's proposals are set out in Civil Renewal: A New Agenda, a pamphlet being launched this evening. The FDA represents prosecutors in the Crown Prosecution Service, including Chief Crown Prosecutors, as well as other senior public servants.

Jonathan Baume, FDA General Secretary, said: "We welcome the Home Secretary's proposals to boost the profile of senior Crown Prosecutors. They play a pivotal role in delivering the government's ambitious agenda to reform the criminal justice system and ensure that communities feel safe.

"The FDA is already working closely with the Attorney General in piloting new arrangements between Prosecutors and the Police, with the Crown Prosecution Service taking responsibility for decisions about charging individuals. We look forward to working with the Home Secretary to take forward his new ideas."

Notes for Editors 1. The FDA is the trade union and professional body representing the UK's 11,000 senior civil and public servants. Our members include policy advisors, senior managers, tax inspectors, economists, statisticians, accountants, special advisers, government lawyers, crown prosecutors and NHS managers. 2. For further information contact: