The failings which have lead to a nationwide review of all live rape and serious sexual assault cases were caused by police forces and prosecutors not carrying out “basic” procedure, the Attorney General has suggested.

In a stinging criticism of authorities' handling a series of failed rape cases, Jeremy Wright QC has said there was “no excuse” and that there was a “substantial problem” with how disclosure protocol is followed.

He also declined to say whether Alison Saunders, director of public prosecutions, should consider her position, but said that tackling the issue required a “joint effort” from prosecutors and police.

Mr Wright made the comments yesterday as he revealed he had asked the CPS to review all live cases, amid fears that dozens may be compromised by the failure to disclose vital evidence ahead of trial.

Ms Saunders has admitted the review - which will affect every force in England and Wales - will likely result in a number of cases being stopped as others are brought forward.

It comes after four high-profile rape cases collapsed within a period of weeks, after the prosecution was found to have only disclosed vital information - which would have cleared the defendants - days before trial.