Section 63 - Statement of accused

(1) An accused in a criminal action may make a personal statement in defence of the charge without first taking an oath or affirmation that the accused will testify truthfully and without being subject to the examination of the parties to the action.

(2) The statement by an accused is admissible to the same extent as if it had been made under oath or affirmation and subject to examination in accordance with sections 61 and 62.

(3) The fact that the evidence was given without oath or affirmation, or that there was no possibility of examination, may be considered in ascertaining the weight and credibility of the statement, and may be the subject of comment by the Court, the prosecution or the defence.