Member

This brings me to another misconception—that changing the law would flood our already overwhelmed justice system. I reiterate that the proposed change is very small. The JCHR considered that question. That is why any prosecution would require the consent of the Attorney-General, who can take into account capacity and public interest. There is no way that these changes would overwhelm our justice system. In any event, the number of cases that would fall within the purview of the amended law would still be very low. However, having this power in the Attorney-General’s locker would send a key message that alleged perpetrators of these crimes cannot travel to the UK and expect to enjoy impunity. Experience from other countries, including Germany, the Netherlands, France and Sweden, which already prosecute international crimes where the perpetrator is present, demonstrates that such an approach is workable, consistent with the rule of law and capable of implementation.