Parole (Special Advocates) Bill 2024

Public bill · Private Member · Introduced

The Parole (Special Advocates) Bill 2024 would change the parole process so that, in certain exceptional cases, a special advocate could be appointed to protect the interests of a person applying for parole. Those exceptional cases include situations where sharing information might threaten state security, harm the public interest, help criminal activity, or hinder law enforcement. The special advocate could review withheld material, make written and oral submissions, and question other parties, but would generally not be allowed to discuss the case directly with the applicant. It matters because it creates a way to keep sensitive information confidential while still giving the applicant’s side a proper voice in the process.

Formal long title

Bill entitled an Act to amend the Parole Act 2019 to provide for the appointment of special advocates to represent the interests of relevant applicants in certain cases before the Parole Board, and to provide for related matters.

Last updated 5 June 2025