It seems that the institutional memory of the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) is failing (see [2006] Gazette, 16 November, 20). Some years ago, there was another scheme by CPS headquarters for recruiting legal trainees externally. It was not a noticeable success.


A similar guarantee of a job at the end of the training period was made. Sadly, events overtook this. Inevitably, the vacancies were not there to be filled, either because of filled complements already, or because of financial stringencies. The posts that were available were usually in offices a distance from the trainees' homes. Those minded to apply now should bear this in mind.



The comment that going to court 'breaks up the week' betrays the mentality now pervading CPS management, that court attendance, certainly in magistrates' courts, is not really important and can be left to unqualified staff.



JDL Edwards, former branch Crown prosecutor, Chester