As of April 1996, the UN Secretary-General received 57 replies from member countries and institutes that contained diverse comments and information. Some member countries and institutes did not consider it desirable to draft minimum rules on the administration of criminal justice, while other member countries favored the formulation of such rules. Certain replies opposing the rules were based on the premise that the administration of criminal justice was already covered by other relevant instruments. Various comments emphasized differences between member countries in terms of culture and legal traditions, and some replies criticized the lack of clarity in the basic purpose of the rules. Most replies agreed on the need to ensure respect for human rights. Opinions on the content of the rules are detailed by section: general principles of procedure, principles governing legal proceedings, rights of the defendant, right of defense, coercive measures, oral proceedings, appeals, victims, and suggestions for member countries. A report annex lists member countries who commented on the rules.