Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
This clause basically allows the accused to have the documents that are charging him in his own language. In the big blank space in the middle, there used to be the words “on application by the accused”. The only other change is under proposed paragraph (a) in the second last line, where it says “automatically”. That word was not there.
Basically what this change does is this. Instead of the accused, who has a different language, having to go and apply to get things in his or her own language, it's automatically translated and given to them. So it took out the words “on application by the accused”, so you don't have to ask for it. Once it's been determined that the trial is going to be in your language, then you would automatically have the documents charging you. I think it's obvious and fair that the person should get them. They shouldn't have to go through the bureaucratic step of having to apply for them. This was also suggested by our witnesses.
I'm happy to hear from the department.