Thompson v The Queen

Details

Type: Case

Citation: [1998] AC 811, PC

Summary: Judge ruling alleged confessions voluntary and admissible — Although in determining admissibility judge had erred in failing in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines to apply English statutory provisions no miscarriage of justice had occurred since she would have been entitled thereunder to admit the confessions and was likely to have done so — The judge ought not to have told the jury she had held the confessions were voluntary but not material irregularity having regard to summing up as whole — Where good character not raised by defence judge had not erred in failing to direct jury thereon — Trial fair — Defendant’s right to have allegation of ill-treatment by police examined by impartial authorities not contravened

Author:

Court: PC

Jurisdiction: St Vincent and Grenadines

Date 1998