Witnesses ‘will give evidence without travelling to court’

CRIMINAL cases could take place without witnesses having to attend court as part of a new scheme aimed at streamlining the trial process.

Every year thousands of cases are delayed or postponed due to problems in getting witnesses to court. The current system is also hugely expensive with witnesses often having to attend courts many miles away from where they live.

But in future people will be able to give evidence remotely via video link, using a network of cameras set up in police stations and other facilities.

The Video Enabled Justice project is being piloted across London and the south east, but could be rolled out across the UK if it is successful.

It is hoped the system will free up thousands of police officer hours, which are often taken up hanging around in courts waiting for cases to begin. Ministers believe the £11 million plans will improve the experience for people called to give evidence in courts and will make vulnerable people more willing to assist in prosecutions.