6. CHAIN OF EVENTS

• This is the unbroken link between the action and effect
• R v MILLER (1983)

  The defendant (a squatter) fell asleep in an empty house. His lit cigarette fell onto his mattress and a fire started. When he realised this he left the room and went to sleep in another room. He did not attempt to put out the fire or summon help. He was guilty of arson under the Criminal Damage Act 1971