asked the Minister for Justice the proposals, if any, for the introduction of regulations to discourage or prohibit the publication of the names of people charged in courts prior to conviction or acquittal in order to protect the families and careers of the individuals concerned from undue publicity.
Written Answers. - Court Charge Publicity.
376.
I assume that the question is intended to refer to the introduction of legislation, as existing law gives no authority for the making of such regulations.
As I have already explained (Dáil Debates for 27 April 1978, Volume 305 No. 11, col. 1709), it would be impossible for me, having regard to the range of possible questions, to undertake to indicate at Question Time what legislation I may or may not be introducing. In this particular case, because of the nature of the suggestion made, I think it right to say that it is clear that there are very important considerations to be taken into account other than those mentioned in the question.