The case confirms that evidence admissible against one co-accused but inadmissible against others does not of itself require separate trials where the case against each accused is strong, the prejudicial evidence is limited in compass and does not involve collateral prejudice, and the trial judge's directions are adequate. A s 165 unreliability warning is not required where the deficiencies in a witness's evidence (drug use, criminal record) are obvious to the jury and do not involve concealed dangers. Full cumulation of a sentence for an ancillary offence (theft of motor vehicle) that is 'all tied up with' the principal offending (kidnapping) may be excessive.
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