Video and Audio Use in Court Proceedings
2020-06-09
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Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
The MP asks about steps taken by the Department to increase the use of video and audio in conducting court proceedings during the COVID-19 outbreak.
What steps is his Department taking to increase the use of video and audio to conduct court proceedings during the covid-19 outbreak?
The increased use of video and audio is a critical component of our response. Over eight weeks, daily remote hearings have risen to about 4,000 per day, ten times more than pre-coronavirus levels. About 90% of all hearings are now conducted remotely.
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Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
The MP inquires about the long-term use of remote technologies and their role in delivering efficiency, access, and timely disposal of justice.
Will my hon. Friend consider measures brought in during this emergency to be part of the long-term future for delivering efficiency, access, and a timely disposal of justice?
My hon. Friend is right; we are rolling out the cloud video platform to enable remote court proceedings, which will be fully rolled out in Crown courts and magistrates' courts by the end of June.
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Q3
Direct Answer
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Context
The MP asks about the assessment made by the Minister regarding the impact of remote hearings on justice delivery, specifically addressing concerns over halted cases and severity of sentences.
What assessment has the Minister made of the effect of these things on people's lives, and will he agree to publish the number of cases simply opened and adjourned?
Data on court listings and hearings is regularly published. Judges must ensure justice is served by a remote or in-person hearing, with decisions based on case circumstances. Fair treatment of defendants, witnesses, and victims remains paramount.
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