Disclosure Manual: Chapter 35 - International Disclosure Issues
Plain-English digest of CPS prosecution guidance.
AI-generated summary — not verbatim. This is a plain-English digest, not the official CPS text. It may omit detail or fall out of date. Do not rely on it for a charging decision — read the full guidance on cps.gov.uk and check the current legislation.
This guidance outlines the responsibilities of prosecutors regarding international disclosure issues during investigations and prosecutions. It emphasizes the need for prosecutors to consider material from overseas early in their case strategies, especially concerning mutual legal assistance. The guidance also details the handling of sensitive material and the importance of documentation in the Disclosure Management Document (DMD).
Key points
- International enquiries are crucial in investigations.
- Consider international disclosure issues early in prosecution strategies.
- Prosecutors should engage with the CPS Liaison Prosecutor if applicable.
- Obligations under CPIA Code apply to overseas material.
- Disclosure Management Document must detail overseas material handling.
- Sensitive material requirements are consistent across jurisdictions.
Public-interest factors
- Protection of sensitive information
- International cooperation
- Preservation of confidentiality in international relations
- Public safety concerns
- Fair trial rights for defendants
- Maintaining integrity of investigations
This is a factual digest of guidance published by the Crown Prosecution Service. Digested 2026-07-15. BlueLineHub is independent and not affiliated with the CPS.