Fees Bulletin 3 of 2024 (November 2024) - Hotel accommodation: guideline rates
1. This fees bulletin confirms increases to the guideline rates for hotel accommodation claimable under the CPS Fee Schemes by external advocates instructed on behalf of the Crown Prosecution Service.
Background
2. The provisions set out in the CPS Fee Schemes allow the payment of hotel expenses in certain circumstances, where pre-authorised. The CPS applies the same rates for hotel expenses that apply to CPS employees under the CPS Travel and Subsistence Code.
Rate Increase
3. With effect from 4 December 2024, the guideline rates for hotel expenses (per person, per night, inclusive of VAT) will increase as follows:
| Rates – effective 4 December 2024 | Region |
|---|---|
| £165 | London (inside the M25 corridor) |
| £100 | Everywhere else in the UK |
4. The new rates have been set following a review of hotel bookings made for CPS staff and witnesses, along with a comparison of the rates allowed by other government departments. They also apply to CPS staff members and to prosecution witnesses.
Pre-authorisation
5. Hotel expenses must be pre-authorised, with all claims supported by receipts.
6. Reimbursement will only be considered where the journey time is more than one hour and 30 minutes from chambers or if the reviewing lawyer deems it appropriate for hotel expenses to be paid.
Exceeding the guideline rates
7. The expectation is that suitable accommodation will be secured within the new guideline rates.
8. Where this isn’t possible, pre-authorisation will require additional approval, with the advocate/chambers invited to outline a) the reason(s) why the guideline rates fall to be exceeded, and b) what steps have been taken to secure suitable accommodation within a reasonable commute of the court/working location.
9. In circumstances where an advocate chooses to stay in hotel accommodation exceeding the guideline rate without approval, they may claim up to the guideline maximum, provided this is agreed in advance by the reviewing lawyer.
Overnight allowance
10. Advocates who stay overnight on CPS business may also claim an overnight allowance of up to £25 per night, supported by receipts, towards the costs of meals and other incidentals over a 24-hour period. The CPS does not cover the cost of alcohol or gratuities/tips.
11. Should you have any queries regarding this bulletin, please contact your Case Auditor or the [email protected].