Whilst it was unlikely that the jury would have reached a different conclusion had the defence known of and consequently been able to cross-examine the prosecution's witnesses on their previous convictions, in view of the fact that the CPS erred in stating that none of the witnesses had previous convictions, the appellant's conviction for robbery would be quashed on the basis of a mistrial.

CA (Crim Div) (Mance LJ, Penry-Davey J, Judge Peter Crawford QC)

04/02/2000