i6 being progressively reduced.) The introduction of statutory limits appeared to be successful and Ministers decided that uniform custody limits should be introduced nationally, but should be phased in in three, stages so as to minimize the pressure on the criminal justice system. The burden of implementing custody limits falls on the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), and the impact on the resources of the CPS was an important consideration. 207. On 1 April 1988, custody limits were extended to Wales and to nine English counties including Greater Manchester. On 1 June 1989, limits were extended to a further 23 counties including North, South and West Yorkshire. Only London and eight counties in the South-East are now outside the limits, and discussion on the phasing-in of limits to these remaining areas are taking place with the CPS and the police with a view to completion in 1990. 208. The results of monitoring so far suggest that under 5 per cent of cases are currently exceeding the limits. Reductions in waiting time have occurred, and the continuing progress in the West Midlands shows that significant improvements are possible. It is probably true that at the moment time-limits directly affect only a small number of cases. Indirectly, however, they have created a disciplined framework and established the presumption that delays will not be tolerated. 209. In Scotland, under the provisions contained in section 101 (2) of the Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act 1975 as amended by section 14 (1) of the Criminal Justice (Scotland) Act 1980, an accused person cannot be detained in custody for more than 80 days on a warrant committing him for trial without being served with an indictment. Failure to serve an indictment within that period will result in his release from custody. An accused person must be 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be discussing a specific policy change in the criminal justice system, focusing on the introduction of statutory limits on custody times. The language used is formal and technical, indicating a focus on the administration and implementation of this policy. The text also mentions the impact on the resources of the Crown Prosecution Service and the police, suggesting a connection to the functioning of the criminal justice system.

**Category**
Justice, Administration