I propose to take Questions Nos. 49, 50 and 52 together.
As the Deputies will be aware, the Director of Public Prosecutions is independent in the performance of her functions in accordance with Section 2(5) of the Prosecution of Offences Act 1974. This statutory independence is a cornerstone of our criminal justice system.
State Solicitors are appointed by and enter into a contract for service with the DPP to provide legal services arising from her functions under the 1974 Act. As such, it is not appropriate to comment on any particular State Solicitor.
The terms of the contract cover a number of matters including conditions of appointment, legal services to be provided, remuneration, restrictions on private practice and reporting obligations.