Criminal Justice System Covid-19 Recovery 2021-05-20
2021-05-20
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
The question arises due to the Crown Prosecution Service's (CPS) role in supporting the criminal justice system during the pandemic.
What assessment has been made of the effectiveness of the CPS's contribution to the criminal justice system's covid-19 recovery?
Inspections in June 2020 and March 2021 found that the CPS responded well to the challenges caused by covid-19. The CPS has made a significant contribution, working closely with partners. Prosecutors and staff have continued delivering essential services both virtually and in person throughout the pandemic.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
The concern stems from a need to ensure that cases involving domestic abuse and sexual assault are prioritised to avoid higher drop-off rates due to delays.
Will the Crown Prosecution Service do all it can to prioritise cases of domestic violence and sexual abuse in the backlog?
The CPS south-east region identifies domestic abuse cases, working with the Courts and Tribunal Service to ensure that they can be listed before the court as a priority. Work is being done to bring trial dates forward to avoid unnecessary delay.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The issue involves the significant delay in obtaining an advocate for rape victims, who are then not allowed into the courtroom during trials.
Why is there a three to six-month wait for an advocate and why can't the advocate support the victim in court?
A rape review is due soon. The CPS introduced an interim charging protocol in April 2020 prioritising high-harm cases, including rape and domestic abuse. While backlogs have been affected by the pandemic, significant efforts are being made to mitigate delays.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific reasons for waiting times were not provided; only general comments on tackling backlog were given.
Discussed Ongoing Work To Address Backlogs
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The question is prompted by the need for the CPS to learn from its pandemic response and improve future resilience.
What learning will the CPS take forward from its pandemic response?
The cloud video platform, enabling around 20,000 virtual hearings a week, is one area of focus for post-pandemic resilience planning. Other measures will also be considered.
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Assessment & feedback
Only highlighted the cloud video platform without specifying other future measures.
Referenced Specific Example But Did Not Provide Comprehensive Learning Points
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
Concern about reduced funding affecting court capacity, leading to a backlog.
Why has the annual spending on recorded sitting days been halved from £19 million to £9.5 million?
An unlimited amount of sitting days has recently been arranged by the Ministry of Justice, allowing courts to make dramatic progress. This includes recorders and the judiciary generally.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address the reduction in funding but provided assurance on current arrangements.
Discussed Current Measures Without Addressing Past Reductions
Response accuracy
Q6
Partial Answer
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Context
The issue involves concerns about the length of time suspects can be on bail before being charged, with specific reference to a case involving prolonged pre-charge bail.
What will the Government do to protect against injustices related to pre-charge bail in coming legislation?
Decisions on pre-charge bail are operational and independent of Government. The Attorney General recognises the distress delays cause but cannot interfere with individual cases directly.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide specific protections against injustices in future legislation.
Explained Limitations On Direct Intervention
Response accuracy