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THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI}{\author blake_r}{\operator blake_r}{\creatim\yr2006\mo3\dy30\hr8\min12}{\revtim\yr2006\mo3\dy30\hr8\min12}{\version2}{\edmins1}{\nofpages8}{\nofwords2550}{\nofchars14536}{\*\company USP}{\nofcharsws17052}{\vern16391}} \margl1440\margr1440 \widowctrl\ftnbj\aenddoc\notabind\wraptrsp\transmf\noxlattoyen\expshrtn\noultrlspc\dntblnsbdb\nospaceforul\truncatefontheight\subfontbysize\sprsbsp\wpjst\lytprtmet\hyphcaps0\horzdoc\dghspace120\dgvspace120\dghorigin1701\dgvorigin1984 \dghshow0\dgvshow3\jcompress\viewkind4\viewscale100\nolnhtadjtbl\rsidroot9450723 \fet0\sectd \sbknone\linex0\headery1440\footery1440\sectdefaultcl\sectrsid9450723\sftnbj {\header \pard\plain \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\pvpara\posx0\posy0\absw9361\nowrap\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid1706822 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 45 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}} {\field{\*\fldinst {\insrsid1706822 PAGE }}{\fldrslt 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\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI \par AT SUVA \par APPELLATE JURISDICTION \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 CRIMINAL APPEAL NO: HAA0}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 060 OF 2002}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Between:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 THE STATE \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Appellant \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 And:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 KAMELI RATUVOU \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Respondent}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387\charrsid1641387 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Ms S. Shah for Appellant \par Mr R. Prakash for Respondent \par \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 Hearing: }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 26th July 2002 \par Judgment:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 2nd August 2002}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 \par \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387\charrsid1641387 JUDGMENT \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 This is the State}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 s appeal against the sentence imposed by the Suva Magistrates}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Court on 28}{\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 th}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 May 2002 in respect of the following charges: \par \par }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 FIRST COUNT \par \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Statement of Offence \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 DRIVING A MOTOR VEHICLE WHILST THERE IS PRESENT IN THE BREAT H A CONCENTRATION OF ALCOHOL IN EXCESS OF A PRESCRIBED LIMIT}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 : Contrary to Regulation 103(1)(a) of Land Transport Act No. 35 of 1998. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Particulars of Offence}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 KAMELI RATUVOU on the 22}{\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 nd}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 day of December, 2001 at Nabua in the Central Division drove a motor ve hicle registration number CR 470 on Ratu Mara Road whilst there was present in 100 millilitres of his breath a concentration of 88 microgrammes of alcohol which was in excess of the prescribed limit. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 SECOND COUNT \par \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Statement of Offence \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 DANGEROUS DRIVING}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 : Contrary to Section 98(1) and 114 of Land Transport Act 35 of 1998. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Particulars of Offence}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 KAMELI RATUVOU on the 22}{\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 nd}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 day of December, 2001 at Nabua in the Central Division drove a motor vehicle on Ratu Mara Road in a manner which was dangerous to the pu blic having regards to all the circumstances of this case. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par The sentence imposed on Count 1 was disqualification from driving for 12 months, and on Count 2, disqualification from driving for 6 months.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The Director of Public Prosecutions appeals against sentence on the following grounds: \par \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (a)\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\ql \fi-698\li1418\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin1418\itap0\pararsid1641387 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 the learned Magistrate erred in law when he failed to impose a fine or a term of imprisonment together with disqualifications. \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (b)\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\ql \fi-698\li1418\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin1418\itap0\pararsid1641387 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 that the sentence imposed by the learned Magistrate was manifestly lenient in all the circumstances of the case. \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par At the hearing of the appeal, counsel for the Respondent raised several issues pertinent to the question of whether the convictions were valid.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 He submitted that although there was no appeal against the conviction, the charge on Count 1 was defective because it did not refer to the penalty section, because it referred to alcohol content in breath in contrast to section 103 itself which referred only to alcohol content in blood, and because the facts did not adequately disclose the offenc e thus rendering the plea equivocal.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 I will deal with these preliminary issues before I turn to the substantive appeal. \par \par }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The charge}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par \par Section 103(1)(a) of the Land Transport Act No. 35 of 1998 provides: \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 A person who .... drives or attempts to drive a motor vehicle or is in charge of a motor vehicle while more than the prescribed concentration of alcohol is present in his blood ... commits an offence.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par Section 103(2) of the Act provides: \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 A person who is convicted of an offence under subsection (1) is liable to the prescribed penalty.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par Section 114 of the Act provides: \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 (1) The penalties prescribed in the third column of the Schedule are prescribed as the maximum penalties for offences against the sections of the act respectively mentioned. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 (2) Where the prescribed penalty is shown by }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 $..../.... months}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 or similar, the court may impose a fine up to the maximum amount shown or a term of imprisonment up to the maximum period shown or both such fine and such imprisonment.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par The schedule to the Act provides (inter alia) as follows: \par \par }\pard \ql \fi709\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Section}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \tab \tab }{ \b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Offence}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \tab \tab }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Prescribed Penalty}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par \par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 S.103(1)(a)\tab \tab }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13722715 \tab \tab \tab }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 First Offence $2,000/2 \par }\pard \ql \fi709\li4309\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin4309\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 years and mandatory \par disqualification from 3 \par months to 2 years. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The Land Transport (Breath Tests and Analyses) (Amendment) Regulations 2000 (Legal Notice 148 of 2000) provide as follows: \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 1. These Regulations may be cited as the Land Transport (Breath Tests and Analyses) (Amendment) Regulations 2000 and are deemed to have commenced on 12}{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 th}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 December 2000. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid13722715 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 2. The Land Transport (Breath Tests and Analyses) Regulations 2000 are amended }{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 -}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 (a) in regulation 3(3) by deleting }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 blood}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 and inserting }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 breath}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 in the 2}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 nd}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 line; \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 (b) in regulation 4(1) by deleting }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Lion Alcometer Model DS}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 -}{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 190}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 "}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 and inserting }{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Alcotest 7410.}{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The Legal Notice is signed J. Koroitamana, Minister for Tourism and Transport, and is dated 20}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 th}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 December 2000. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The Amendment Regulations do not purport to amend section 103(1)(a) of the Land Transport Act.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Section 113 of the Act gives powers to the Minister for Transport to make regulations to prescribe (inter alia) }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 matters necessary to regulate breath tests or breath analysis.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 In accordance with this power, the Land Transport (Breath Tests and Analyses) Regulations 2000 were passed.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Those Regulations do not (and indeed they could not) purport to amend section 103(1)(a) of the Act, under which the Respondent was charged.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The Act itself provides for the creation of an offence, under section 102(1), of Driving whilst under the Influence of Intoxicating Liquor or any Drug thereby being incapable of having proper control of the motor vehicle.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Section 104 of the Act provides that a police officer may require }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 a person in respect of whom section 102(2) applies to undergo a breath test or breath analysis according to the procedures prescribed in the regulations.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The Land Transport (Breath Tests and Analyses) Regulations 2000 (Legal Notice No. 63 of 2000), under Regulation 3, provides as follows: \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 (1) For the purpose of section 103(1)(a), the prescribed concentration of alcohol is 80 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 (2) Evidence that there is alcohol in the blood in excess of the prescribed concentration at a relevant time may be given by reference to a sample of the person}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 s blood taken with his or her consent, or by reference to the reading on a breath analysing instrument in accordance with sub}{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 -}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 regulation (3). \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 (3) A reading on a breath analysing instrument in microgrammes of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood is to be multiplied by 2.2 in order to arrive at the number of milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood.}{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Regulation 9 provides: \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 (1) In proceedings for an offence under section 103(1)(a) or 105(1) evidence may be given of the concentration of alcohol present in the blood of the person charged, as determined by a bre ath analysing instrument operated by a police officer authorised in that behalf by the Commissioner of Police, and the concentration of alcohol determined as aforesaid is deemed to be the concentration of alcohol in the blood of that person at the time of the occurrence of the event referred to in section 103(1)(a) or 105(1) where the breath analysis was done within two hours after the event, unless the defendant proves that the concentration of alcohol in his blood at the time of that event was less than the prescribed limit.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The Act, and the Regulations, are silent on the way in which charges ought to be drafted.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Section 3 of the Criminal Procedure Code provides that all offences shall be dealt with according to the provisions of the Criminal Procedure Code subject to the enactment of special procedures for special offences.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Section 122 of the Criminal Procedure Code applies to all charges and informations.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Section 122(a)(ii) provides that the Statement of Offence }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 shall contain a reference to the section of the enactment creating the offence.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 There is no requirement to state the penalty enactment.} {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Thus the draft charge in the schedule to the Code, for murder refers, only to section 199 of the Penal Code, not to section 200, which prescribes the penalty for murder. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 There was therefore no requirement for the prosecution to specify the penalty provisions of the Land Transport Act, in the charge under section 103(1)(a). \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Counsel also submitted that section 103(1)(a) was in relation to alcohol in the blood an d was defective because the evidence tendered by the prosecution showed the amount of alcohol in the breath.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The offence created by section 103(1)(a) is that of driving with excess alcohol in the blood.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The Statement of Offence referred instead to }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 breath.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 .}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The Particulars of Offence refer to 88 microgrammes of alcohol in the breath.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The printout of the Drager Alcotest 7110 that was tendered in court by the prosecution, indeed shows that the Respondent had 88 microgrammes of alcohol in the breath.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Regulati on 3(3) of the Land Transport (Breath Tests and Analyses) Regulations 2000 provides that the breath test result (and I note a misprint in the Regulation in that the word }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 blood}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 is used instead of }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 breath}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 ) must be multiplied by 2.2 to arrive at the result of the number of microgrammes of alcohol in the blood.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The Particulars of Offence are therefore erroneous.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The charge should have read: \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Kameli Ratuvou on the 22}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 nd}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 day of December 2001, at Nabua in the Central Division, drove a motor vehicle Registration No. CR470 on Ratu Mara Road whilst there was present in 100 millilitres of his blood a concentration of 193.6 microgrammes of alcohol which was in excess of the prescribed limit.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The charge was therefore clearly defective.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The Regulations were passed to assist law enforcers to calculate blood alcohol levels by using breath test machines.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 It is the responsibility of the prosecutor to make the necessary calculations to charge with the corresponding blood alcohol level.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Further section 103(1)(a) does not create an offence of driving whilst there is present in the }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 breath}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 an excess concentration of alcohol, the offence is of excess alcohol in the blood.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Thus the Statement of Offence refers to a charge which is not provided for under section 103(1)(a).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Regulation 3 of the Land Transport (Breath Tests and Analyses) Regulations 2000, does not create an offence.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 It merely sets out the prescribed limits and provides for a calculation to translate breath alcohol to blood alcohol.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The offence is of blood alcohol, and charges under the section must refer to blood alcohol. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The charge was therefore defective because it failed to disclose the ingredients of the offence. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 This matter is before the High Court on an appeal against sentence.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 However the Court can, in its revisionary jurisdiction, quash convictions based on invalid charges.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Although the point was raised for the first time on appeal, and section 342 of the Criminal Procedure Code does not permit objections to the charge to be raised at appeal when they were not raised at trial, the Respondent was not represented at the hearing in the Magistrates}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Court.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Pursuant to the proviso to section 342, I therefore have allowed this objection to be raised. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The question is whether the defect in the charge must result in the quashing of the conviction.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Not all defects lead to the quashing of convictions.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 An omission in }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 R }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 -}{ \b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 v}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 -}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Nelson}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 (1977) 65 Cr. App. R. 119, to set out an essential element of the offence was held to be only a technical breach and appeal against conviction was dismissed.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 In }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 R }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 -}{ \b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 v}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 -}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Power}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \~(1978) 66 Cr. App. R. 159, the Statement of Offence referred to the wrong offence under the Perjury Act 1911.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The Court of Appeal held that there had been no substantial miscarriage of justice and upheld the conviction.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 In }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 R }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 -}{ \b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 v}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 -}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Ayres}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 (1984) AC 447, the Statement of Offence was for conspiracy to defraud.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The Particulars of Offence disclosed an agreement to obtain money by deception.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The House of Lords held that if the Statement and Particulars of Offence related to and were intend ed to charge a known and subsisting offence, but are pleaded in terms which are inaccurate, incomplete, or otherwise imperfect then the question is whether the accused was thereby prejudiced or embarrassed. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The question is therefore whether the charge alleged an offence known in law.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 If it does, then could the defect have been cured by amendment? And, was the accused prejudiced or embarrassed by the defect, in his defence? \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 In this case, the charge alleges an offence under section 103(1)(a).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 } {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 What is wrong about the charge is the reference to }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt \f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 breath}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 instead of }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 blood.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 If the prosecution had conducted the calculation laid down in Regulation 3(3) the charge could have been amended to read blood instead of breath.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 I find therefore that the charge was defective but was not a nullity.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 It could have been amended. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Was the accused prejudiced by the defect? He was unrepresented.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 He appears to have waived his right to counsel on the 28}{\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 th}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 of May.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The summary of facts read as follows: \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 On the 22/12/01 about 2.40am}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 c omplainant driving taxi along Rt Mara Road towards Suva and at Grantham Road junction, the red light turned green when the accused ran the red light turned onto the complainant}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 s car and an accident occurred.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The matter was reported to police, accused was found under influence of alcohol.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Accused was breath}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 -}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 tested, interviewed and charged. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Tender the copy of the reading of the metre.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The Respondent said that he admitted the facts in respect of each count.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 He admitted drinking after he had taken alcohol.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 In mitigation he said he had been driving slowly and said he was no longer driving.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 He said he was the spiritual advisor for Catholic Youth from Navua Town to Wainadoi and that he had left alcohol. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The reference to breath in the charge is only understanda ble to a lay person, if it is explained to him or her, that Regulation 3(3) of the Breath Tests and Analysis Regulations, allows blood alcohol level to be calculated from breath alcohol level. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The tendering of the Alcotest 7410 does not explain what the Respondent was actually charged with.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 He was unrepresented and the charge is a technical charge.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Counsel for the Respondent referred me to }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Varinava Tuabua }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 -}{ \b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 v}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 -}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Reginam}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Lautoka High Court App. 32/85, }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Balram }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 -}{ \b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 v}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 -}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Reginam}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Lautoka High Court App. 57/83, and }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Barry Jennions }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 -}{ \b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 v}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 -}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Reginam}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 18 FLR, all of which support the proposition that courts should approach with caution, guilty pleas to offences which require expert evidence to prove.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 In the case of a represented accused person, an evidential link might well have be en made between breath and alcohol contest (thus leading to an amendment of the charge).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 However in this case, the Respondent was not represented, the breath analysis printout referred to breath alcohol level, and not as required, to blood alcohol level, and he could not have known that his charge was defective. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 In the circumstances I am not satisfied that he was not prejudiced by the defect in his charge on Count 1, and I quash his conviction accordingly.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Counsel also raised the question of whether the facts adequately disclosed the offence.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 As I have found, they did not because there was no reference to the blood alcohol level which was really the substance of the charge. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Sentence}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Although the conviction on count 1 is quashed and with it, the sentence, both counsel suggested to me that some guidance might be helpful as to appropriate sentences passed under section 103(1)(a) of the Land Transport Act.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 At the hearing of this appeal, State counsel quite rightly abandoned a submission that a fine or imprison ment was mandatory, and relied instead on her second ground of appeal, that the learned Magistrate erred in her discretion to impose such fine or imprisonment.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 \par \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 On the understanding therefore that my remarks in respect of sentences for section 103(1)(a) offences, are strictly obiter dicta, I make the following observations. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Section 114(2) of the Act provides that }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 the court may impose a fine up to the maximum amount shown or a term of imprisonment up to the maximum period shown or both such fine and such imprisonment.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The word }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 may}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 creates a discretion.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 This discretion may be exercised by imposing a fine in any sum up to the maximum, but may also be exercised by not imposing a fine at all.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 It may be exercised by not imposing either fine or a period of imprisonment.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 What is mandatory is a period of disqualification.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The minimum mandatory term of disqualification (on first conviction) is 3 months.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The Magistrate has a discretion to impose more than 3 months but may not impose less. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 As to offences of Dangero us Driving under section 98 of the Act, the Magistrate may impose fine or imprisonment and/or disqualification for 6 months. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Disqualification for section 98 offences is not mandatory, and imposing a term of disqualification is discretionary. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The Director of Public Prosecutions has appealed against sentence in respect of Count 2.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 No fine was imposed and the Respondent was disqualified from driving for 6 months.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 State Counsel was not able to refer me to any tariff for sentences under section 98 of the Act.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 However I do not consider that the learned Magistrate erred in her discretion to impose a period of disqualification.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 It appears that the Respondent is a volunteer worker with no source of income.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The imposing of a period of disqualification for 6 months would appear to be more suited to a person with no apparent means to pay a fine.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The appeal against sentence on Count 2 is therefore dismissed. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 Summary}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 In the revisional jurisdiction of the High Court, the Respondent}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 s conviction is quashed on Count 1, on the ground that the charge was defective and the Respondent thereby prejudiced. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 The State}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 s appeal against sentence on Count 2 is dismissed.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 \par \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid13722715 Nazhat Shameem \par }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 JUDGE}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13722715 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1641387 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 At Suva \par 2}{\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 nd}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450723\charrsid1641387 August 2002}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1641387 \par }}