Belizean evidence for use overseas

(1) This section has effect where the central authority receives– (a) from a court or tribunal exercising jurisdiction in a foreign State or a prosecuting authority in such a State; or (b) from another authority in such a State which appears to him to have the function of making requests of the kind to which this section applies, a written request for assistance in obtaining evidence in Belize in connection with criminal proceedings that have been instituted, or a criminal investigation that is being carried on, in that State. (2) If the central authority is satisfied– (a) that an offence under the law of the State in question has been committed or that there are reasonable grounds for suspecting that such an offence has been committed; and (b) that proceedings in respect of that offence have been instituted in that State or that an investigation into that offence is being carried on there, he may, if he thinks fit, by a notice in writing nominate a court in Belize to receive such of the evidence to which the request relates as may appear to that court to be appropriate for the purpose of giving effect to the request. (3) For the purpose of satisfying himself as to the matters mentioned in paragraphs (2)(a) and (b), the central authority International Co-operation Act [CAP. 103:04 19 shall regard as conclusive a certificate issued by such authority in the State in question as appears to him to be appropriate. Schedule I. (4) The Schedule I has effect with respect to the proceedings before a nominated court in pursuance of a notice under subsection (2). CAP. 139.