To ask the Secretary of State for Justice pursuant to the answer of 5 June 2008, Official Report, column 1111W, on criminal proceedings, (1) when the working group on the Very High Cost Case (VHCC) scheme will make its proposals for the next VHCC scheme; and whether these will be published; (210298)

The working group on Very High Cost Cases (VHCC) aims to present initial proposals for the next VHCC scheme by 8 July 2008. Detailed proposals will then be developed and will be subject to public consultation in due course.

The working group meets on a regular basis at appropriate points, rather than following a particular pattern of meetings.