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\fs20\cf1\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7099188\charrsid7099188 IN THE }{\b\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid7099188 SUPREME COURT OF FIJI}{
\b\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7099188\charrsid7099188 
\par }{\b\caps\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7099188\charrsid4615283 Appellate Jurisdiction
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin0\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7099188\charrsid5140658 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin0\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid934027 Criminal Appeal No. 86 of 19}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 78
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin0\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 B}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7099188 ETWEEN}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 :
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin0\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7099188 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin0\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\b\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4615283 MANI LAL}{\b\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3553314 
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7099188\charrsid3553314 s/o}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3553314  BEHARI
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin0\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7099188 AND:}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7099188\charrsid3283230 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin0\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7099188 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin0\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\b\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid7099188 REGINAM
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin0\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7099188\charrsid5140658 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin0\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\b\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid7099188 JUDGMENT
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin0\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7099188 
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8015172 On the 15th August 19}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 78 at Suva Magistrates Court the}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10838777  }{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 appellant was convicted after trial of driving under the}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10838777  }{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 in}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10838777 fluence of drink contrary to}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8943167  section 39(1}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 ) of the }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10838777 Traffic Ordinance and was fined }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 
$350.and disqualified from holding}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10838777  a driving }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 licence for two years.}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894 
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10838777\charrsid3283230 
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 The appellant was originally charged with an additional offence of dangerous driving contrary to section}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10838777  3}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8943167 8(1}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10838777 ) of the Traffic Ordinance but}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 
 at his trial the prosecution conceded}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10838777  }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 
that in regard thereto the appellant had not been served with a notice of intended prosecution under section 41 of the Traff}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10838777 ic Ordinance and in consequence }{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 he was acquitted.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894 
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10838777\charrsid3283230 
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 The appellant has appealed against the conviction and sentence and the Crown (which for convenience I shall continue to refer to as the respondent) has appealed against the}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3676933  }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 acquittal of the appellant in respect of the charge of dangerous driving.}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894 
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10838777\charrsid3283230 
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 The prosecution evidence established that on the evening of the 16th July 1978 the appellant was driving a truck along Kings Road in }{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10838777 the direction of Suva in a zig-z}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 
ag manner, on and off the footpath, and other road users had to take avoiding action. The truck ultimately stopped obliquely across the road, causing an obstruction, and a police officer apprehended the appellant.}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3283230\charrsid3283230  }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 He smelled strongly of liquor, his speech was slurred, he was unsteady on his feet and had}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10838777  }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 to be assisted into the police vehicle. At the police statio
n the appellant refused to be examined by a doctor but agreed to carry out some tests in the presence of the detective senior inspector on duty. On standing up he nearly fell over and had t}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7893570 
o grasp the table for support. }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 He was unable to walk straight, and on being asked to turn round he lost his balance}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10838777  }{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 and had to hold on to the wall. With his eyes closed he was}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3676933  }{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 unable to touch his nose with his fingers or to place his fingertips together. He admitted having taken gin but could}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10838777  }{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 not remember how much he had drunk.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3283230\charrsid3283230  }{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 
The detective senior inspector was of the opinion that the appellant was drunk, and he was detained overnight and on the following morning he was charged by the police with drunken driving and with dangerous driving. On the same morning he was taken
 before Suva Magistrates Court on a charge of drunken driving and dangerous drivi}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9270612 ng to which he pleaded not guilty}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 .}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894 
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10838777\charrsid3283230 
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5208015 At }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 his trial the appellant admit}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5208015 ted having drunk three or four }
{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3805202 "}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 nips}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3805202 "}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230  of gin but denied that he was drunk and called a witness to that effect who had been drinking with him. The}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5208015 
 appellant also claimed that the reason he was unable to walk in a straight line at the police station was a leg injury.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894 
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3676933\charrsid3283230 
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5208015 The trial Magistrate did}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230  not believe the defence and}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5208015 
 accepted the }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 prosecution evidence, which was sufficient to}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5208015  }{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 ground a conviction not only for drunken driving but also for}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8015172  }{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 dangerous driving.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894 
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5208015\charrsid3283230 
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 In his petition of appeal the appellant claims that}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5208015  }{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 there was a}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5208015  conflict between the evidence }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 
of some of the}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5208015  }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 prosecution witnesses, but having perused the record I am}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5208015  }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 satis}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5208015 fied that there was no material }{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 discrepancy. The}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5208015  }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 
appellant also maintains that the detective senior inspector,}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5208015  }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 not being an expert witness, was not entitled to say that}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5208015  }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 the appella}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5208015 nt was so drunk as to be unfit }{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 to drive.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3283230\charrsid3283230  }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 That}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5208015  }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 is so, bu}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5208015 t }{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 the detective se}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5208015 nior inspector did not presume }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 to
}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5208015  testify that the appellant was}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230  so drunk as to be unfit to}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5208015  }{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 drive.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3283230\charrsid3283230  }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 
What he did say was that after examining the appellant}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5208015  }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 at Central Police Stat}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5208015 ion he informed him that in his }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 opinion}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5208015  }{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 he was drunk to such an extent as to be incapable of having}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5208015  }{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 proper control of a }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13707906 motor vehicle, which was simply}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230  a recital}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13707906  }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 
of a conversation that had taken place between him and the appellant, n}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4994471 ot evidence of the appellant}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3805202 '}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4994471 s }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 incapacity. The appellant also claims that he was not involve
d in an accident which is irrelevant; and that there was insufficient evidence to}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4994471  convict him of drunken driving}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 
- a submission which cannot be sustained.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894 
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13707906\charrsid3283230 
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 As to sentence, this was not harsh and excessive as the appellant maintains but was fully justified i}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13707906 
n the circumstances of the case.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230  His appeal is accordingly dismissed.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894 
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13707906\charrsid3283230 
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 As to the cross appeal of the respondent, at the close of the pr}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13707906 osecution case, the prosecution}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230  having conceded that the appellant was not served with a notice of intended prosecution u
nder section 41 of the Traffic Ordinance, defence counsel submitted that the appellant could not be convicted of dangerous driving and the trial Magistrate upheld that submission for the following reasons}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13707906 :-}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894 
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13707906\charrsid3283230 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin720\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3805202 "}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 
In my view the provisions of section 41 Cap.152 not complied with. None of the three ways of advising the accused of the charge against him was followed. He was not warned at the time, he}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10499767  }{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 did not receive notice of intended prosecution within 14 days, he did not have summons served on him within 14 days.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin0\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13707906\charrsid3283230 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin720\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 
This technicality is a strict one. It is ridiculous in the extreme but it is the law.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin0\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13707906\charrsid3283230 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin720\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 None of those courses open to the police was followed.}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3283230\charrsid3283230  }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 
It is, in my view, ludicrous to be able to shelter under such a technicality but put simply it has not been com
plied with. The police could easily have served accused with notice of intended prosecution before he came to Court that day. I regret that the law is such an ass in this case but it is the law a}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3108654 
nd this Court cannot legislate. }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 Accused is entitled to the}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8015172  full protection of the law and }{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 I give it to him}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3108654 . He i}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13707906 s acquitted on Count 2.}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3805202 "}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin0\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3108654\charrsid3283230 
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 I intend no disrespe}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7105741 ct to the trial Magistrate when}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230  I say}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7105741  }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 
that the law is not an ass. Certainly there are occasions,}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7105741  }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 mai}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7105741 
nly due to unfortunate drafting }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 of legislation, when the law appears to be an ass; but it is for the Courts, so far}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7105741  }{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 as they are able, to ensure that the appearance doe}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7105741 s}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230  not become the reality.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894 
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7105741\charrsid3283230 
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 The classic approach to the construction of }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid345691 legislation was laid down in }{
\b\i\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid345691\charrsid8943167 Hey}{\b\i\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid8943167 don}{\b\i\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3805202 '}{
\b\i\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid8943167 s}{\i\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid13581443  }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 
case (1584) 76 E.R. 637 at 638 as follows}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid345691 :-}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894 
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid345691\charrsid3283230 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin720\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3805202 "}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 
For the sure and true inte}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9637741 rpretation of all statutes in ge}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 nera}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9637741 
l (be they penal or beneficial,}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230  restrictive or}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9637741  enlarging of the common law), f}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 our}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9637741  }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 things are to be discerned and considered:}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin0\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8943167\charrsid3283230 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin1440\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14230891 (1) What was the common}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230  law before the making of the Act (2) What was the mischief and defect for which the common law did not provide (3) What re}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14230891 
m}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 edy the Parliament hath}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14230891  }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 
resolved and appointed to cure the disease of the commonwealth (4}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14230891 ) The true reason of the remedy;}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 
 and then the office of all the Judges}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7491143  }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 is al}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7491143 ways to make such}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230  construction as shall suppress the mischief, and advance the remedy, and to suppress subtle inventions and evasions for the continuance of the mischief, and pro pr}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7491143 ivato commodo, and to add force }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 and life to}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3283230\charrsid3283230  }{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 the cure and remedy; according}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7491143 ly}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230  to 
the true intent of the makers }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7491143 of the A}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid345691 ct, pro bono publico.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3805202 "}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin0\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid345691\charrsid3283230 
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 Section 41}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7491143  of the Traffic Ordinance reads:-}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894 
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7491143\charrsid3283230 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin720\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3805202 "}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 
Where a person is prosecuted for an offence under any of the-provisions of this Part of this Ordinance relating respectively to the maximum spee}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8792481 d}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8943167  }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 at which motor vehicles may be driven, to reckless or dangerous driving, and to careless driving h}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7491143 e shall not be convicted unless either-}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin0\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7491143\charrsid3283230 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin1440\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 
(a) he was warned at the time the offence was committed that the question of prosecut}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7491143 ing him f}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 or an offence under some 
one or other of the provisions aforesaid would be taken into consideration; or}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin0\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7491143\charrsid3283230 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin1440\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 
(b) within fourteen days of the commission of the offence a summons for the offence was served on him; or}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin0\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7491143\charrsid3283230 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin1440\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 (c) within the said fourteen days a notice of the intended prosecutio
n specifying the}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4353028  }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 
nature of the alleged offence and the time and place where it is alleged to have been committed was served on or sent by registered post to him or the person registered as the owner of the vehicle at the time of the commission of the offence:}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin0\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7491143\charrsid3283230 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin720\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 Provided that}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7491143  
\endash  }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin0\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7491143\charrsid3283230 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin1440\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 
(a) failure to comply with this regirement shall not be a bar to the conviction of the accused in any case where the court is satisfied that}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin0\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9838903\charrsid3283230 
\par }\pard \ql \li2160\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin2160\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9838903 (i) }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 neith}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9838903 er the name and address of the }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 accused nor the name and address of the registered 
owner of the vehicle, could with reasonable diligence have been ascertained in time for a summons to be served }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9838903 or for a notice to be served or }{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 sent as aforesaid; or}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin0\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9838903\charrsid3283230 
\par }\pard \ql \li2160\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin2160\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9838903 (ii)}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3283230\charrsid3283230  }{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9838903 the accused by hi}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 s own conduct contributed to the failure; and}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894 

\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin0\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9838903\charrsid3283230 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin1440\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 (b) the requirement o
f this section shall in every case be deemed to have been complied with unless and}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10111538  until the contrary is }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9838903 proved.}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3805202 "}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin0\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7491143\charrsid3283230 
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 Under the common law there is no comparable provision, and}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9254190  the purpose of }{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 the enactment is to ensure that a driver is not taken by surprise long after the commi}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9254190 
ssion of a driving offence by being charged with}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230  it when his recollection is dulled and witnesses may b}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9254190 
e difficult to trace (}{\b\i\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9254190\charrsid8943167 R. v. Bil}{\b\i\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid8943167 ton}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230  (1964) 108 S.J. 880).}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3283230\charrsid3283230  }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 
If a person is driving regularly it may be very difficult for him, on being charged with speeding, or careless or dangerous driving long after the event, to pinpoint in his memory the precise incident which gave }{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9254190 rise to the charge, and even if}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230  he is able to recall it the lapse of time may render it difficult or impossible for him t
o prepare a proper defence. This is the defect for which the common law did not provide,}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8985493  }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 
and for which Parliament, in the interests of the proper administration of justice, has provided a remedy by section 41. Once the reason for section 41 is appreciated 
it is clear that if a driver has been charged with the offence within fourteen days section 41 has no application. Any other construction would be manifestly absurd and could entail, for example, having to serve an offender with a notice of intended prose
cution or}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8985493  }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 a summons after he has appeared before a court on the charge. The sole purpose of the section i}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8985493 s to put the driver on notice - }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 
and charging him with the offence puts him on notice in a more forcible manner than the procedures laid down by section 41.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8985493  }{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 In accordance with the proper canons of construction I hold,}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8985493 
 therefore, that section 41 applies only when a driver has not been charged within fourteen days with the offence or offences to which the section relates.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894 
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8985493\charrsid3283230 
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 Consequently the trial Magistrate should have found that}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8985493  there was a case for the appellant to answer}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230  in respect of count}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8985493  2. }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 However, as the appellant
}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3805202 '}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 s defence was not directed to the}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8985493  }{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 charge of dangerous driving, if this Court were to set aside the}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8985493  }{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 acquittal it would be necessary to remit the case to the trial Magistrate for him to proceed with the trial of the appellant}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8985493 
 }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 on that cha}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8985493 rge. As the trial Magistrate is }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 
not at present in Fiji and as the sentence impose}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8985493 d by him is adequate in all the }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 
circumstances, the respondent is not asking for this course}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8985493  }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 
of action to be taken. Accordingly, while the cross appeal of the respondent succeeds in law, I make no order in furtherance}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8985493  }{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid3283230 thereof.
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin0\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\b\caps\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid4615283 Chief Justice
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri-17\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin-17\lin0\itap0\pararsid3805202 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid8943167 Suva,
\par 10th November 1978}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8985493\charrsid8943167 .}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14969894\charrsid8943167 
\par }}