Section 17 Defences: burden of proofI1

United Kingdom

(1)

This section applies where a person charged with an offence under this Act relies on a defence under any of sections 5(1) to (6), 6(1), F17B(5) and (7), F2... 10(3) and (4) and 15(3).

(2)

Where evidence is adduced which is sufficient to raise an issue with respect to that defence, the court or jury shall assume that the defence is satisfied unless the prosecution proves beyond reasonable doubt that it is not.

Annotations

Textual amendments

F1: Words in s. 17(1) inserted (6.4.2012 for E., 31.10.2012 for N.I., 3.12.2012 for W.) by Health Act 2009 (c. 21), s. 40(1), Sch. 4 para. 10; S.I. 2010/1068, art. 2(1A)(b)(iii) (as amended (9.5.2011) by S.I. 2011/1255, art. 2(a)(b)); S.R. 2012/389, art. 2(1)(b)(iv); S.I. 2012/1288, art. 2(2)(b)(ii)
F2: Word in s. 17(1) omitted (29.10.2026) by virtue of Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026 (c. 18), s. 175(1), Sch. 6 para. 10 (with s. 166)

Commencement

I1: S. 17 wholly in force at 14.2.2003; s. 17 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 22(1)(2); s. 17 wholly in force at 14.2.2003 by S.I. 2002/2865, art. 2(2)(i); S.S.I. 2002/512, art. 2(2)(i)