Where a proposed ground of appeal against conviction is reasonably arguable and the Crown concedes as much, an extension of time may be granted despite an inordinate and inadequately explained delay, particularly where the delay is attributable to the applicant's lawyers rather than the applicant personally, the Crown is not prejudiced, and no new trial would be required if the appeal succeeded. The public interest in removing unsafe convictions can outweigh the public interest in finality of criminal proceedings in such circumstances.
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