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{\revtim\yr2010\mo4\dy6\hr16\min9}{\version29}{\edmins233}{\nofpages4}{\nofwords2256}{\nofchars12862}{\*\company scims}{\nofcharsws15088}{\vern24689}}\paperw11907\paperh16840\margl0\margr0\margt0\margb0 \widowctrl\ftnbj\aenddoc\noxlattoyen\expshrtn\noultrlspc\dntblnsbdb\nospaceforul\subfontbysize\hyphcaps0\formshade\horzdoc\dghspace120\dgvspace120\dghorigin1701\dgvorigin1984\dghshow0\dgvshow3 \jcompress\viewkind4\viewscale100\pgbrdrhead\pgbrdrfoot\nolnhtadjtbl\rsidroot2649138 \fet0\sectd \psz9\linex0\sectdefaultcl\sectrsid3044115\sftnbj {\*\pnseclvl1\pnucrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl2 \pnucltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl3\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl4\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl5\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl6 \pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl7\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl8\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl9\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\pard\plain \qr \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2761257 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257 [2000] 2 FLR 15 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2649138 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2761257 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3044115 IN THE }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257 HIGH COURT OF FIJI}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15343253 ISLANDS}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257\charrsid2761257 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2649138 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2761257 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 In Re ERONI DELAI \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2649138 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257\charrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 High C}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257 ourt}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid141690 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257 Miscellaneous Jurisdiction \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 Scott, J \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257 14 April 2000 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9137663 HBM}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7105203 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 15}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9137663 /}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 00 \par \par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 Personal liberty -}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257\charrsid2761257 Habeas corpus ad subjiciend}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 um}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257\charrsid2761257 }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 -}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257\charrsid2761257 }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 whe}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257\charrsid2761257 ther prison sentence in default of fines ex}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 cessive}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257\charrsid2761257 }{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 -}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257\charrsid2761257 }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 appropriate value for}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257\charrsid2761257 }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 f}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257\charrsid2761257 i}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 nes discussed- whether applicant }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257\charrsid2761257 wilfully}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 refused to pay fines - Criminal Procedure Code }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8420155 (Cap 21) ss80(1) and (2), 88(4),}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 199, 205, 323, Penal Code (Cap 17) s35(1)(a), Constitution 1997 s23(1) and (2) \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257\charrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 The applicant, a mini van driver had served 6 months of a total default period of 4465 days or 12.23 years for failure to pay fines ranging from $25 to $60 and }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257\charrsid2649138 totalling}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 $5,754.00 for 93 traffic offences mostly involving failure to stop using a private vehicle as a taxi. The applicant never attended court. In some cases he pleaded guilty in writing, in others, he was found guilty after formal proof. The Court never enquired into the applicant's means to pay fine before imposing fines. The applicant was released immediately by order of court.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257\charrsid2649138 \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 Held }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 - (1) Failure to pay a small or modest fine or failur}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8420155 e to apply for extension }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 of time will be taken as evidence of refusal to pay.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257\charrsid2649138 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9710406 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 (2) Constitution section 23 does not require further detailed examination of means when Criminal Procedure Code sections 88 and 199 are properly applied, but larger fines impose d for more serious offences will require examination as to means before fine is imposed.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257\charrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 (3) Constitution section 23 is not a licence for persistent offenders of very limited means to escape sanction }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257 of imprisonment, but offenders}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 will be given more time to pay upon request being made to a court.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2649138 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257\charrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257 Appl}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 icant released immediately from prison.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257\charrsid2649138 \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 Cases referred to in judgment \par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3044115\charrsid3044115 R}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid3044115 ef}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid9200067 }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 Haroon}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257\charrsid2761257 Khan v State}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257\charrsid2761257 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257\charrsid10899299 (1994) 40 FLR 182 \par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3044115\charrsid3044115 R}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid3044115 ef}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257\charrsid9200067 }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 Sundarjee Bros Limited v Coulter }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid10899299 (1987) 33 FLR 83 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 \par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 [Note: appl in }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 Esala Rasea, Re}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 }{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257 [}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 2000] HB}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257 M}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9710406 }{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12020659 0}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 42}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13458431 /}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 00 28 July 2000; 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}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 Sosiceni Vuluma v State}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 [2000] Revisional}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257 }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 Action HAJ}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12020659 00}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 1}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13458431 /}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 00L 17 November, 2000; fo}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12020659 ll}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 in }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 Apenisa Erevatu and Meli Nalulu v State}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 [200}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257 1}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 ] in HAJ}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12020659 0}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 002 and HAJ0003}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13458431 /}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 0}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257 1}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 L Judgment of 20}{ \i\fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid2761257 t}{\i\fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12020659 th}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 February, 2001; }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 Mateo Bale & Naisa Cakacaka v State}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 [2001] HAR}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13458431 }{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12020659 0}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13458431 0}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 1}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13458431 /}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2761257 01 22nd June 2001] \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257\charrsid2649138 \par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257\charrsid11696064 William Clarke for applicant \par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid11696064 Sunil Kumar for the State \par Dr Shaista Sha}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257\charrsid11696064 m}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid11696064 eem with }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2761257\charrsid11696064 V}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid11696064 uki Qionibaravi for the Fiji Human Rights Commission \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13400698 14}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12020659 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13400698 April 2000}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7086293 .}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13400698 \par \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13400698 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid13400698 JUDGMENT \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2649138 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13400698\charrsid2649138 \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid13400698 Scott, J. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13400698\charrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 The Applicant was produced before the Court by the Commissioner of Prisons on 11 April after }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13400698 a writ of habeas corpus ad subj}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 iciendum had been issued pursuant }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13400698 to leave granted on 15 March. O}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 n 10 April 1 ordered the Applicant's immediate release from prison and now give my reasons.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826\charrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 The Applicant is a mini van driver who during 1997 and 1998 committed 93 traffic offences, mostly incorrect stopping or using a private vehicle as a taxi.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826\charrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 On each occasion he was served wi}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5987632 th a Notice to Attend Court (NAC}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 ) under the provisions of section 80 of the Criminal Pr}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13847212 ocedure Code (Cap.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826 21 - the CPC)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 but according to paragraph 5 of his supporting affidavit, on no occasion did he actually attend Court as required by the Notice.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826\charrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 A }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826 NAC is, by virtue of Section 80}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 (2) of the CPC equi}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826 valent to a summons. Section 80}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 (1) of the CPC empowers a Resident Magistrate to deal with the offence to which the summons (or NAC) relates in the absence o f the accused so}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 long as the offence is only punishable either by a fine or by a fine and imprisonment not exceeding 3 months and providing that the accused pleads g}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826 uilty or is legally represented.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 \par \par A Resident Magistrate can also deal with the matter under Se}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10899299 ction 199 of the }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 CPC whi ch permits a hearing to take place in the absence of an accused where the accused is charged with an offence punishable by a fine not exceeding }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826 $}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 100}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding G months. This procedure is colloquially referred to as "formal proof". Unlike the Section 88 procedure some evidence has to be adduced before a conviction can be entered.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826\charrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 According to the Applicant's files held in t}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7086293 he Suva Magistrates' Court the }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 Applicant's convictions in most cases were entered after the offences had been formally proved but on some occasions he pleaded guilty in writing.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826\charrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 Section 88 (4) allows a Resident Magistrates to impose a fine on an offender convicted in his absence u}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826 nder Section 88(2). Section 35}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10632219 (1)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 (a) of the Penal Code (Cap. 17) requires that any fine "shall not be excessive". A fine will be excessive and wrong in principle where the accuse}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826 d does not have the means to }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 pay it (see }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2491826 Haroon Khan v. The State}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 40 FLR 182). The Penal Code also allows a default period of imprisonment to be imposed "for such term as in the opinion of the Court will satisfy the justice of the case" not exceeding the scale set out in Section 35.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7086293 I}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 pause here to observe that it seems to me that t he common practice of fixing the default period at the rate of $1 per day is no longer appropriate given the decline in the value of the dollar. I should have thought that $5 per day}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 i}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826 s now a more appropriate rate.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826\charrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 Although Section 199 is not as specific as Section 88 when it comes to sentence it is clear from Section 205 that there is a similar power to sentence an accused in his absence under Section 199 and that similar Penal Code provisions apply. \par \par As will be seen from the schedule tabled by Mr. Clarke the fines imposed on the Applicant ranged between about $25 and $60 these being tariff fines which it has been the practice of the Magistrates' Court to impose for these types of}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 routine offences for many years. In each case the Applicant was given time to pay the fines but he did not do so. \par \par Where the fine is not paid the warrant which is issued is Form 22 of the CPC Forms. As can be seen from the Form an accused person who is arrested pursuant to such a warrant is given a final opportunity to pay the fine and any costs or}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 compensation ordered together with a warrant issuing fee which I understand is now $}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826 6.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 50. \par \par Where the procedure went badly wrong in this case was that whereas the convictions were entered and the fines and default periods were imposed during 1997 and 1998 the first warrants of execution were not issued until 1999 by}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 which time, as has been seen, the Applicant had accumulated 93 unpaid fines, costs and warrant fees, together totalling no less then $5,754.00 with a total default period of 4465 days or 12.23 years! \par \par The Legal Aid Commission became aware of the Applicant's predicament and commenced the proceedings for habeas corpus. At the application stage I gave leave to the Director of the Human Rights Commission to intervene in the}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 proceedings under the provisions }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826 of Section 37}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 (2) of the Human Rights Commission Act 1999. \par \par Naturally, the Applicant's principal interest in the matter was to be released and having established the facts set out above it was immediately clear to me that the Applic ant's release should be ordered. The reason is simple. In the words of the Magistrates' Bench Book (February 1994 Edition):}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826\charrsid2649138 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2491826 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 "where the Court imposes a custodial sentence it should review the aggregate to ensure that the overall effect is just."}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2649138 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826\charrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 The principle, usually known as the totality principle, as explained by D, A. Thomas in Principles of Sentencing is:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826\charrsid2649138 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2491826 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 "that the aggregate of sentences must bear some relationship to the gravity of the individual offences."}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2649138 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826\charrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 It is abundantly plain and obvious that a man who parks his van illegally or uses his private vehicle as a taxi should not be required to serve a 12 year term of imprisonment. The Applicant had, by April 2000, already served 6 months}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 imprisonment. Further imprisonment would clearly be unjust. Under the provisions therefore of Section 323 of the CPC I revised each of th}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826 e sentences passed upon the Appl}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 icant so as to enable him to be immediately released.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826\charrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 Dr. Shameem advised me that she knew of at least 6 other cases of persons serving long sentences of imprisonment in default of payment of numerous small }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7282243 f}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 ines. Mr. Kumar suggested that the habeas corpus procedure was not the right}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826 } {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 procedure where a detention is perfectly lawful. I agree. If there are indeed other persons serving similar sentences of imprisonment then those sen}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826 tences can most conven}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 iently be brought before the Court under the }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826 provisions of sections 323 of the CPC.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 \par \par For the avoidance of this sort of problem in future it is essential that the accumulation of unpaid fines and the consequ ent accumulation of unserved default periods of imprisonment be avoided. The Magistrates' Court must devise a procedure to ensure the execution of warrants reasonably soon after the period given for the payment of the fine has expired. While the person pr incipally to blame for his incarceration must be the}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 Applicant himself who thought }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5987632 he}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 could simply ignore the orders of the Court, those responsible for issuing and executing default warrants must also bear some resp onsibility for giving the Applicant, and apparently others, the impression that the orders of the Court can be disregarded with impunity. Hopefully the eventual computerisation of the fines system will enable such cases of repeated offending to be spotted early and brought to the attention of the Resident Magistrate. \par \par As appears from her written submission Dr. Shameem's interest in this case is rather wider than the sentences being served by any particular prisoner.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826\charrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 Her concern is with section 23 of the new Constitution of the Fiji Islands 1997. \par \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826 Section 23}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 (1) provides that:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826\charrsid2649138 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2491826 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 "a person must not be deprived of personal liberty except:}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2649138 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826\charrsid2649138 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10298826 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 (a) for the purpose of executing the }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826 sentence or order of a Court \'85}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 in respect of an offence for which the person has been convicted, (or)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2649138 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826\charrsid2649138 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10298826 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 (b) for the purpose of executing the order of the Court made to secure the fulfilment of an obligation imposed on the person by law".}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2649138 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826\charrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826 Section 23}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 (2) however states that:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826\charrsid2649138 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2491826 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5987632 "Paragraph 1}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 (c) does not perm it a Court to make an order depriving a person of personal liberty on the ground of failure to pay ... a ... }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5987632 f}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 ine unless the Court considers that the person has wilfully refused to pay despite having the means to do so."}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2649138 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826\charrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 The questions to which Section 23 immediately gives rise are wheth}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826 er the provisions of Section 88}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 (4) of the CPC and the procedure whereby fines are imposed on absent offenders after a CPC Section 199 hearing are constitutional.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826\charrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12020659 As appears from paragrap}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 h 10 of Dr. Shameem's written submiss ion her view is that there being no evidence that the Court enquired into the Applicant's means to pay the}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5987632 fines before it imposed them. I}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 t could not have satisfied itself that the Applicant was in fact able to pay them. Accordingly therefore it could not be satisfied, as is required by Section 23, that the non payment was on the ground of wilful refusal.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826\charrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 Mr. Kumar, who had obviously spent much time preparing a very well researched written submission rejected that argument. Citing }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid12020659 Sundarjee Bros Ltd v. Coulter}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 33 FLR 83, he submitted that "an obligation imposed by}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12020659 law" referred to in Section 23}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 (}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12020659 1}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9922720 )}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4544222\charrsid2649138 (}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 c) does not include a fine. I }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12020659 disagree. In my view Section 23}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 (2) is clear: an offender may only constitutionally be ordered to serve a default period of imprisonment if the Court is satisfied that the offender had the means to pay the fine imposed but wilfully refused to pay it. \par \par This reading of the Section is consistent with the detailed provisions of Section 37 of the Penal Code, subsection (4) of which requires the Court to examine the offender's means either before imposing the fine or before issuing a warrant for committal for non payment. \par \par It is not easy to reconcile the requirements of Section 37 of the Penal Code with}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5113147 Sections 88 and 199 of the CPC}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 . One way to do so, however, is to regard the Sections 88 and 199 procedures as being permitted deviations from the requirements of Section 37 in cases where the maximum permissible sentence does not exceed the limits imposed by the two sections. \par \par If this approach be taken then providing the proceedings were commenced by a NAC and not by a summons it is possible to detect the reasoning which justifies the departure from the normal procedural requirements established by}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 Section 37. In these cases, as can be seen by the CPC Form 9, the offender is clearly warned (as is required by Section 88 (4) that: }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826\charrsid2649138 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1320397 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826 (i}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12020659 ) If h}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 e does not attend Court then he may be fined in his absence;}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2649138 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826\charrsid2649138 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1320397 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 (ii) That he will not be advised what fine is impose d upon him but that it is his duty to find out from the Court himself what fine has been imposed;}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2649138 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826\charrsid2649138 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1320397 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 (iii) That he will be given an initial 8 days to pay the fine imposed;}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2649138 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2491826\charrsid2649138 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1320397 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 (iv) That he may apply to the Court for the 8 day period to be extended; but that}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2649138 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1320397\charrsid2649138 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1320397 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 (v) If the }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5987632 fine}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 is not paid within the 8 day period or such extended period as is allowed by the Court then he will be liable without }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4544222 further notice to be committed }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1320397 to serve a default period of im}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 pris}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1320397 o}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 n}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1320397 m}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 ent.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2649138 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1320397\charrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 This system which has been operating for many years}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1320397 is very well understood in Fij}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 i. In my view it is a fair and reasonable procedure for the imposition of small to moderate }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4544222 f}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 ines. I take this view because the NAC not only gives an offender an}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1320397 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 opportunity to come to Court at the sentencing stage but als o to come to Court to seek an extension of time within which to pay the fine imposed. It is time to pay which is the critical difference between the ways offenders of varying}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1320397 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 means are dealt with. As already seen, traffic and other minor offences are, and alway}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9902743 s have been dealt with on an in}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 formal tariff basis. In other words whatever the me}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1320397 ans of an offender a case of illegal}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 parking, bald tyre or defective headlamp will attract more or less the same p}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1320397 enalty. It is not the case in Fij}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 i that a poor person will only have to pay a very small penalty for having a defective handbrake whereas a rich person will have to pay much more. Where the difference lies is that a poor person will be given much longer to pay the penalty. It is exactly th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1320397 at question of the length of ti}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 me to pay which the NAC directly addresses both by warning the offender that he will only be given 8 days to pay the fine and that it is up to him to apply for longer to pay if that is what he needs.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1320397\charrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1320397 Th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 e plain fact is that everyone in Fiji is well able to pay a small or modest fine given enough time to do so. It follows that failure to pay the small or modest fine imposed and failure to apply for an extension of time within which to pay it can}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1320397 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 reasonably be taken by the Court as evidence of the offenders}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5987632 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 wilful refusal to pay. In my view Section 23 does not require a detailed examination of the offenders}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1320397 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid2649138 means when the Sections 88 and 199 procedures are properly used. Section 23 is not a licence to persistent offenders of ve ry limited means to escape the sanction of imprisonment altogether. The fine imposed still has to be paid but the offender, upon request being made to the Court, will be given longer to pay it. Where, however, larger fines are imposed for more serious off ences then, as already pointed out, the Penal Code requires an examination of means to take place before the fine is imposed and this is entirely consistent with Section 23.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1320397\charrsid2649138 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5980616 {\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid1320397 Habeas corpus ad subjiciend}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1320397 um }{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid1320397 allowed.}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138 \par }\pard \qr \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3044115 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2649138\charrsid15343253 Marie Chan \par }}