Disclosure of Evidence 2022-10-20
2022-10-20
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
▸
Context
The question arises from concerns about recent steps to improve the process of disclosing evidence in legal proceedings.
What recent steps have been taken to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of disclosure of evidence?
In May, this Government published the review of disclosure and amended the disclosure guidelines to deliver improvements for police, prosecutors and the victims of crime. The new guidelines feature an annex on data protection that will ease the burden on police, leaving them with more time on the beat and to investigate crime.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
▸
Context
There has been a review that highlights multiple failings in multi-agency communication in Northumberland, despite stating lessons have been learned. Constituents report similar issues persisting.
Will my right hon. and learned Friend reassure me and the people of Blyth Valley that steps are being taken to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of disclosure?
Updated principles on accessing third-party material have strengthened privacy protections for victims, and mandate that officers must have clear written reasons in place before accessing any material such as, for example, therapy notes. Communication between the criminal justice agencies continues to improve apace.
▸
Assessment & feedback
The specific communication failings in Northumberland were not directly addressed.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The question arises from the importance of examining international good practices to prevent miscarriages of justice.
Will he look at other countries' good practice on this, especially the United States?
We are always looking and willing to look at how other jurisdictions practise in this sphere. The volume of suspects charged has continued to increase quarter on quarter, with a rise from 526 to 550 in quarter 3, indicating a move in the right direction.
▸
Assessment & feedback
The specific request to examine good practices was not directly addressed.
Response accuracy