Fiches Belges: United Kingdom (Third Country)

Is this measure possible in your Member State under International Judicial Cooperation?

Yes, but Member States must make requests for criminal records via their own central authority for the exchange of criminal records. The criminal record information provided through ECRIS is transmitted through a standardised format which facilitates automatic translation and recognition of criminal offences. If a central authority (Home Office or Crown Office) receives a request for criminal records from a Member State the request will be redirected to the UK’s central authority for the exchange of criminal records (ACRO).

International legal framework applicable for this measure in your Member State

Framework Decision 2009/315/JHA Council Decision 2009/316/JHA (ECRIS) European Convention on Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters 1959

* receive the request/decision for judicial cooperation

ACRO Criminal Records Office (ACRO) ACRO PO Box 481 Fareham Hampshire PO14 9FS United Kingdom

* execute/recognise the measure (if other than the receiving authority)

ACRO (as above)

Accepted languages for the request/decision

All requests should be in English. If an English translation is not provided, is incomplete, or is not carried out to a high professional standard, the request will be sent back to the requesting authority.

Deadlines for the execution of the request/decision (where applicable)

N/A

a. Special requirements

N/A

b. Other useful information

The link below gives information for competent authorities abroad about obtaining evidence within the UK (or abroad) to assist in criminal investigations or proceedings: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/mutual-legal-assistance-mla-requests