Explanatory Notes

Crime (International Co-operation) Act 2003

2003 CHAPTER 32

30 October 2003

Commentary on Sections

Part 1: Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters

Chapter 2: Mutual Provision of Evidence
Section 25: Release of evidence held under the order

77.Under this section, the court may, in response to an application made by one of the persons listed in subsection (2), authorise the release of evidence by the constable. This would enable the persons mentioned in subsections (2)(a) and (2)(b) to apply for the release of the evidence seized in the event that the overseas freezing order were withdrawn, or if one of the conditions for non-execution in section 21 were met.

78.It would also enable a third party affected by the order, for example the person whose property had been seized, to challenge the execution of the order on the grounds listed in subsection (1). Substantial reasons for issuing the overseas freezing order can, however, be challenged only in the country which issued the order.