[F1166BCharges which disclose convictionsS
(1)Nothing in section 166 of this Act prevents—
(a)the prosecutor leading evidence of previous convictions where it is competent to do so as evidence in support of a substantive charge;
(b)the prosecutor proceeding with a charge—
(i)which discloses a previous conviction; or
(ii)in support of which evidence of a previous conviction may competently be led,
on a complaint which includes a charge in relation to which the conviction is irrelevant; or
(c)the court trying a charge—
(i)which discloses a previous conviction; or
(ii)in support of which evidence of a previous conviction may competently be led,
together with a charge on another complaint in relation to which the conviction is irrelevant.
(2)But subsections (1)(b) and (c) above apply only if the charges are of offences which—
(a)relate to the same occasion; or
(b)are of a similar character and amount to (or form part of) a course of conduct.
(3)The reference in subsection (1)(c) above to trying a charge together with a charge on another complaint means doing so under section 152A of this Act.]
Textual Amendments
F1 S. 166B inserted (10.12.2007) by Criminal Proceedings etc. (Reform) (Scotland) Act 2007 (asp 6) , ss. 12(2) , 84 ; S.S.I. 2007/479 , art. 3(1) , Sch. (as amended by S.S.I. 2007/527 )