Brussels, 07/07/2009 (Agence Europe) - On Wednesday, the European Commission will propose measures to set common standards on the right to interpretation and translation in criminal proceedings throughout the EU. The draft decision seeks to ensure that, if suspects do not understand or speak the language used, they are entitled to interpretation during police questioning, meetings with lawyers and all court hearings. Suspects would also be entitled to have any important documents translated so they can fully understand the case against them. Both interpretation and translation should be free. The text relates to any person suspected or accused of a criminal offence, from the moment he/she is informed of this and until final disposal of the case. The proposal also brings in the requirement on member states to offer judges, lawyers and other court staff to ensure that defendants understand the proceedings. Once the proposal has been adopted by the Council, and after consultation of the European Parliament, member states will have two years to incorporate the decision into national law. The Commission was also due to present another proposal on Wednesday, allowing member states' police forces and Europol access to the database containing the finger prints of asylum seekers (Eurodac). Presentation of this proposal, which has incensed refugee organisations, has, however, been delayed until September. (B.C./transl.rt)