PART IIPRE-TRIAL PROCEEDINGS

The circumstantial letter5

1

The circumstantial letter shall report the circumstances on which the charges are founded in sufficient detail to show the real nature and extent of the alleged offences. When words constitute the substance of the alleged offence, they shall be fully and exactly set out.

2

The circumstantial letter shall not refer to the previous character, conduct or any convictions of the accused, or contain any reference to the facts prejudicial to him other than such as are directly relevant to the charges or which indicate a course of unlawful conduct.

3

Where the accused is charged under section 19 of the Act6 (loss or hazarding of any of Her Majesty’s ships) or under section 29A of the Act7 (damage or loss of Her Majesty’s aircraft or aircraft material), the circumstantial letter shall specify details of every aspect in which it is alleged that the accused was at fault.