In criminal proceedings, an accused person's spouse who is called as a witness on behalf of the defence is generally both competent and ________ to give evidence.

The notes expressly state that the accused’s spouse is a competent and compellable witness for the accused when called by the accused. The rule concerns testimony for the defence and should not be confused with the separate restrictions on prosecution testimony. **Key takeaway:** A spouse called by the accused may be both fit and obligated to testify under the stated rule. **Glossary:** Compellable: legally required to attend or give evidence.