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Evidence (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1991
80BComments about lack of, or delays in making, complaint
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80B Comments about lack of, or delays in making, complaint
(1) This section applies if, in a sexual offence proceeding, evidence is
given, or a question is asked of a witness, that tends to suggest that—
(a) the complainant made no complaint about the alleged offence;
or
(b) there was a delay in making a complaint.
(2) The judge must––
(a) give the jury a warning to the effect that the absence of, or the
delay in making, the complaint does not necessarily indicate that
the allegation that the offence was committed is false; and
(b) tell the jury that there may be good reasons why a victim of a
sexual offence may not make, or may hesitate in making, a
complaint about the offence.
Sexual offence proceedings—directions and warnings to juries Division 4.4.4