Police custody letter of rights comes under review

Views from interested parties are being invited as ministers review the terms of the letter of rights given to suspects and accused persons held in police custody in Scotland.

Intended to give a clear explanation of the person's rights under Scots law while being held in police custody, the letter of rights was first introduced on a non-statutory basis in 2013 and then updated in 2018 to take account of the Criminal Justice (Scotland) Act 2016. It comes in a standard and an “easy read” version.

At that time the Scottish Government undertook to consult this year on potential changes to the letter to ensure it remains fit for purpose. Ministers are keen to gather views on the content and language used in the letter and the formats in which it is made accessible.

Questions include whether each version of the letter is easy to understand; whether they give the key information individuals need to know; what if anything should be added or clarified; and whether the layout is helpful or could be improved – as well as whether it should be provided in alternative formats such as Braille or audio.

Click here to access the consultation. Responses are due by 13 December 2019.