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Information Technology Unit}{\operator blake_r}{\creatim\yr2005\mo12\dy3\hr16\min45}{\revtim\yr2005\mo12\dy3\hr16\min45}{\printim\yr2004\mo4\dy5\hr11\min47}{\version2}{\edmins1}{\nofpages6}{\nofwords2025}{\nofchars11549} {\*\company Judicial Department}{\nofcharsws13547}{\vern16391}}\margb720 \widowctrl\ftnbj\aenddoc\noxlattoyen\expshrtn\noultrlspc\dntblnsbdb\nospaceforul\formshade\horzdoc\dghspace180\dgvspace180\dghorigin1701\dgvorigin1984\dghshow0\dgvshow0 \jexpand\viewkind4\viewscale100\pgbrdrhead\pgbrdrfoot\nolnhtadjtbl\rsidroot14365832 \fet0\sectd \linex0\endnhere\titlepg\sectdefaultcl\sftnbj {\header \pard\plain \s17\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar \tqc\tx4320\tqr\tx8640\pvpara\phmrg\posxc\posy0\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\field{\*\fldinst {\cs18\insrsid6245452 PAGE }}{\fldrslt { \cs18\lang1024\langfe1024\noproof\insrsid6245452 6}}}{\cs18\insrsid6245452 \par }\pard \s17\ql 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FIJI \par AT LAUTOKA \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\brdrb\brdrs\brdrw30\brsp20 \aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\brdrb\brdrs\brdrw30\brsp20 \aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832\charrsid14365832 Judicial Review}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832\charrsid14365832 No. HBJ014.98L}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\brdrb\brdrs\brdrw30\brsp20 \aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\brdrb\brdrs\brdrw30\brsp20 \aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\b\caps\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 The State \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\brdrb\brdrs\brdrw30\brsp20 \aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\caps\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832\charrsid14365832 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\brdrb\brdrs\brdrw30\brsp20 \aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\b\caps\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 v}{ \b\caps\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\brdrb\brdrs\brdrw30\brsp20 \aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\caps\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832\charrsid14365832 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\brdrb\brdrs\brdrw30\brsp20 \aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\b\caps\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 Commissioner of Police \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\brdrb\brdrs\brdrw30\brsp20 \aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\caps\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832\charrsid14365832 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\brdrb\brdrs\brdrw30\brsp20 \aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\caps\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 Ex parte}{ \caps\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 :}{\caps\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 }{\b\caps\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 Babu Ram \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\brdrb\brdrs\brdrw30\brsp20 \aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \par \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 Lautoka High Court}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 15 March 2001, 5 April 2004}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \par Gates J \par \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 JUDGMENT \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\brdrb\brdrs\brdrw30\brsp20 \aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 \b\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 { \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 Judicial Review; Police Act Cap 85 Section 60; Regulation 12(37) Po lice Regulations; High Court exercising supervisory not appellate jurisdiction; was penalty irrational?; powers of Police Disciplinary Tribunal, Sections 32, 33, 34; submissions to Commissioner of Police as body invested with power of sentence; adverse ex t ernal recommendation recommending demotion; recommendation of tribunal for penalty of fine and warning; need for disclosure and for opportunity to deal with recommendation not part of Tribunal proceedings; entitlement to be heard; bare recommendation as c ompared with evidential material; effect of applicant\rquote s subsequent letter of appeal. \par \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \par Mr G.P. Shankar for Applicant \par Mr A. Tuilevuka for the State \par \par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 [1] }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 \tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 The issues in this case are whether a penalty of demotion in rank imposed by the Commissioner of Police after disciplinary tribunal proceedings was irrational, and whether an external adverse recommendation should have been disclosed to the Applicant prior to the Commissioner\rquote s decision on penalty in order to permit applicant an opportunity to address the recommendation. \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \par [2] \tab Judicial review proceedings were filed as long ago as 8 July 1998.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 The applicant filed an affidavit in support; and later a further 2 affidavits.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 Leave was opposed. \par \par [3] \tab Regrettably this is a case, in which the parties and particularly the aggrieved party who brings the application, have been poorly served by the court and by judicial services.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 Byrne J has oft stated his own trenchant view on the systemic delays at the Lautoka High Court and on the inadequacy of the services and judicia l officers made available to deal with the work.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 These remarks followed on earlier comments in 2001 of Prakash J on systemic delays at this court centre.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 The Deputy Registrar informs me that after survey there is now known to be a backlog of 6,500 civil cases.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 For many years there has been only one civil judge, and so the problem gets worse. I tender my apologies to the parties on behalf of the judges and for my own part, the chief part, in contributing to the delay.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \par \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 The Police Tribunal \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 [4] \tab The applican t joined the Fiji Police Force in 1969.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 He was promoted Corporal in 1976.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 On 11 March 1998 he sat a police qualifying examination for Sergeant.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 In his affidavit the applicant said he was charged with conduct prejudicial to good order contrary to Regulation 12 (37) of the Police Regulations Cap 85.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \par \par [5] \tab This charge he said \'93related to myself having made or copied some notes during the examination.\'94 \par \par [6] \tab He appeared before a Police Disciplinary Tribunal.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 He admitted the charge.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 On 16 April 1998 he was give n a memorandum from the office of the Commissioner of Police signed by an Assistant Commissioner dated 3 April 1998 informing him that his punishment was to be reduction in rank from Corporal to Constable, with ensuing reduction in pay.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 The applicant claims the penalty was out of all proportion to his conduct which he had frankly admitted before the Tribunal.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 He also called it \'93very severe, unreasonable, unfair.\'94 \par \par [7] \tab In }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 Permanent Secretary for PSC v Lepani Matea}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 (unreported) Court of Appeal Fiji, Civil Appeal No. ABU0016.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 19}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 98S; 29 May 1998, the court said (at p.12): \par \par }\pard \s16\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \'93 We think that it is important to remember what many cases of high authority have determined \endash and they have been emphasised in the past by this Court \endash that judicial review is what it says, namely, a judicial review and not an appeal.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 The function of the Court is to ensure that the body subject to the review has acted within its jurisdiction, has directed itself properly as to the law applicable and applied that law accordingly.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 It must, too, observe the requirements of procedural fairness to the extent that they apply in the particular case.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 What it must not do is to determine the merits of the matter, or substitute its opinion for that of the body concerned upon the merits.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 This means, of course, that it cannot substitute its opinion for that of the body concerned on the matter of penalty.\'94 \par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \par [8] \tab In }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 R v Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council Ex p. Hook}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 [1976] 3 All ER 452 two judges of the 3 judge Court of Appeal held that punishment which was altogether excessive and out of proportion to the occasion could be quashed on that ground and the court had jurisdiction to interfere by certiorari in such a case.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 The excessive penalty was the cancellation of a stall holder\rquote s licence the applicant having urinated in the street. \par \par [9] \tab In }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 Lepani Matea}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 the court commented (p.13): \par \par }\pard \s16\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \'93 But the penalty has to be so severe and so out of proportion that no reasonable body could impose it.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 Short of that standard the Court cannot interfere.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 We do not think that can be said of the penalty in this case.\'94 \par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \par In that case dismissal from the Public Service was the penalty meted out for having been convicted of causing death by dangerous driving when he was sentenced to 9 months imprisonment suspended for 2 years, fined $500 i/d 4 months imprisonment, and disqualified from holding or obtaining a driving licence for 18 months. \par \par [10] \tab The court cannot intervene and substitute its own penalty simply because it would have preferred a less severe form of punishment.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 The Tribunal here recommended the imposition of a $40 fine with a final warning to be issued by the Commissioner.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 The Commissioner instead decided demotion was the correct penalty for conduct that amounted to cheating in an examination. \par \par [11] \tab Cheating is a form of dishonesty and hardly a matter to be taken lightly in the police force.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 Police officers are expected to be straightforward and honest.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 They are tasked with the duty of investigating crime, including crimes of dishonesty.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 The public expect their approach to such work to be completely honest and beyond question. \par \par [12] \tab Irrespective of whether this court, or any appellate court, would have been minded to interfere with this sentence and favour the tribunal\rquote s recommendation, reduction in rank cannot be categorised as an irrational penalty.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 On this limb of the argument, leave to issue judicial review cannot be granted. \par \par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 The external recommendation \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \par [13] \tab The evidence submitted is scanty.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 It is not clear who the tribunal comprised. \par \par Regulation 13 sets out how the tribunal should conduct itself: \par \par }\pard \s16\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \'9313.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 The following procedure shall apply to all proceedings heard by any tribunal under the provisions of section }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 32 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 of the Act:---}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759 \par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832\charrsid14365832 \par }\pard \s16\ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 (i)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \tab the officer charged with an offence against discipline (hereinafter referred to as \'93the accused\'94) shall be supplied with a copy of the charge prior to the hearing;}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759 \par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832\charrsid14365832 \par }\pard \s16\ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 (ii) \tab no documentary evidence shall be used in any such proceedings unless the accused has been given access thereto prior to the}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 hearing;}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759 \par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832\charrsid14365832 \par }\pard \s16\ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 (iii)\tab the evidence of any witness taken d uring the course of the proceedings shall be recorded in the presence of the accused;}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759 \par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832\charrsid14365832 \par }\pard \s16\ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 (iv) \tab the evidence given at the proceedings need not be taken down in full, but the substance and material points thereof must be recorded in writing and read over to the accused;}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759 \par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832\charrsid14365832 \par }\pard \s16\ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 (v) \tab the accused shall have the right to cross-examine each witness giving evidence against him and after each such witness has given evidence he shall be asked if he desires to cross-examine such witness;}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759 \par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832\charrsid14365832 \par }\pard \s16\ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 (vi) \tab the accused shall be asked if h e desires to give evidence in his own defence and to call witnesses and, if he does so desire, shall be given a reasonable opportunity to do so;}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759 \par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832\charrsid14365832 \par }\pard \s16\ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 (vii) \tab the tribunal may, in its discretion, allow the accused to be assisted by a friend, being a gazetted officer, and, when such permission is given, his defence may be conducted by such friend.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759 \par }\pard \s16\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832\charrsid14365832 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 (Amended by Order 10th}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 July 1970\'94.)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \'94 \par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \par [14] \tab Section 32(1) of the Act provides: \par \par }\pard \s16\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \'93B.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 Subject to the provisions of section }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 33}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 , any gazetted officer shall have power}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 to hear and investigate charges, and if he finds the accused person guilty}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 of an offence against discipline, to make recommendations to the}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 Commissioner as to the punishment to be imposed.\'94 \par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \par [15] \tab Section 32(2) deals with with the making of a defence to a charge: \par \par }\pard \s16\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 (2) No police officer shall be convicted of an offence against discipline unless the charge has been read and investigated in his presence and he has been given sufficient opportunity to make his defence thereto.\'94 \par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \par [16] \tab The applicant does not complain of the proceedings before the tribunal.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 I conclude therefore that he was able to make his case on his plea of guilty and to submit on the question on penalty.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 Punishment was a power only the Commissioner could impose [section 32].}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 Having heard the applicant\rquote s mitigation the tribunal made its recommendation for a fine of $30 and a final warning.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 The record of proceedings, the defence mitigation and submissions on sentence, and the tribunal\rquote s recommendation would all have been before the Commissioner when he came to perform his review of the proceedings as he was bound to do by virtue of section 33.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \par \par [17]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \tab Section 33 provides: \par \par }\pard \s16\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 \'93}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 33.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 (1) The Commissioner shall review all proceedings heard by any tribunal, other than proceedings heard by himself.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759 \par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832\charrsid14365832 \par }\pard \s16\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 (2) Upon such review, the Commissioner may---}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759 \par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832\charrsid14365832 \par {\pntext\pard\plain\s16 \i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (a)\tab}}\pard \s16\ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pni1\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 quash the finding;}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759 \par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832\charrsid14365832 \par {\pntext\pard\plain\s16 \i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (b)\tab}}\pard \s16\ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pni1\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 alter the finding, find the offender guilty of another offence and punish him in accordance with his powers under the last preceding section;}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759 \par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832\charrsid14365832 \par {\pntext\pard\plain\s16 \i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (c)\tab}}\pard \s16\ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pni1\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 confirm the finding and punish the offender in accordance with his powers under section }{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 32}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 ;}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759 \par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832\charrsid14365832 \par {\pntext\pard\plain\s16 \i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (d)\tab}}\pard \s16\ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pni1\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 remit the proceedings to the tribunal which heard them or to another tribunal, for re-hearing.\'94 \par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \par [18] \tab Then came the recommendation in the form of a memorandum to the Commissioner from the Divisional Police Commander Western of 27.3.98.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 It was signed by a Superintendent of Police S.T. Raivakadua for the DPC/Western.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 It read: \par \par }\pard \s16\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \'93 Attached please find the disciplinary proceeding papers in respect of the above named officer with the recommendation of the tribunal. \par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \par }\pard \s16\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 In view of t he seriousness of the offence and to be committed by a senior NCO who should show good examples to junior subordinates.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 I differ from the recommendation and feel that a much more severe punishment is called for. \par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \par }\pard \s16\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 Perhaps a reduction in rank is appropriate in this case and I recommend accordingly please.\'94 \par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \par [19] \tab This memorandum was not copied to the applicant, nor was he given a chance to deal with the memorandum prior to the Commissioner\rquote s review and imposition of punishment. \par \par [20] \tab The procedure for trial of offences against discipline provides for a recommendation on punishment to come from a gazetted officer.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 However the Act does not confer such a role upon any gazetted officer.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 The power is given to the trial officer, the gazetted officer who has the power to hear and investigate charges.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 In this respect, the proceedings were irregular. \par \par [21] \tab Subsequently, on 4.6.98 the applicant wrote a letter to the Commissioner headed \'93Appeal on Severity of Sentence\'94.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 The letter referred to the reasons why the applicant had committed the offence.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 He referred to his plea of guilty as demonstrating his remorse.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 He cited other cases where police officers charged with more serious offences had been met with more lenient punishment, a monetary fine not reduction in rank.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 The letter gave a specific example. \par \par [22] \tab The applicant referred to his 29 years of service during which he had only committed 2 disciplinary offences only.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 Both were minor and the last was in 1994.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 He referred to the severity of the loss of income from the reduction in rank, the loss of gratuity and pension.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 The letter ended by asking the Commissioner to review the severity of punishment.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 The Commissioner did not allow the appeal. \par \par [23] \tab Had the applicant not been allowed to present his submissions on penalty to the tribunal, the applicant would have been denied his right to be heard.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 But he had been accorded an opportunity to submit what he considered a fair penalty from amongst the list of possible punishments open to the Commissioner in section 32(1)(A)(b).}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 The tribunal then forwarded the applicant\rquote s submissions together with its recommendation with a record of the proceedings to the Commissioner. \par \par [24] \tab In }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 Lepani Matea}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 (supra at p.10) the court said: \par \par }\pard \s16\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \'93Finally we add that what is a fair hearing will depen d upon the circumstances of each case; it does not mean that in every case a right of personal appearance must be given.\'94 \par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \par [25] \tab Though the recommendation for harsher treatment came from an unauthorised quarter, the applicant\rquote s subsequent letter to the Commissioner put his case fully on this issue and dealt with it.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 The irregular recommendation had been confined to penalty, put forward no fresh or prejudicial evidential material, and was not argumentative: cf. }{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 K.R. Latchan Brothers Ltd & Anor. v Sunbeam Transport Ltd & Others}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 (unreported) Fiji Court of Appeal Civil App 45 of 1983; 16 March 1984 at p.24.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 The applicant had had the earlier opportunity to deal with all possible punishments open to the Commissioner when addressing the tribunal.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 This may have been persuasive on the tribunal in arriving at its recommendation for fine and warning. \par \par [26] \tab I have already observed that the external recommendation is not provided for by the procedure and it should no longer be repeated if it is still police practice.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 The applicant has been heard on penalty however.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 I see no useful purpose therefore in granting leave, which I refuse. \par \par }\pard \s16\qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 A.H.C.T. GATES \par }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 JUDGE \par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14365832 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \par Solicitors for the Applicant: Messrs G.P. Shankar & Co., Ba \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14365832 Solicitors for the State}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 : Office of the Attorney General, Suva}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752759\charrsid14365832 \par }}