10Prosecutions

10 Prosecutions

(1) Proceedings for the commitment of a person for trial on indictment for an offence against this Act shall not be instituted except with the consent in writing of the Attorney‑General. (2) Notwithstanding that a consent in accordance with subsection (1) has not been given in relation to an offence against this Act: (a) a person may be charged with an offence against this Act; (b) a person may be arrested for such an offence, and a warrant for such an arrest may be issued and executed; and (c) a person so charged may be remanded in custody or on bail; but no further step in proceedings referred to in subsection (1) shall be taken until such a consent has been given. (3) Nothing in subsection (2) prevents the discharge of the accused if proceedings are not continued within a reasonable time.