Pre-recording evidence of child witnesses

Date: 8th August 2017
Category: Best interests of the child

This consultation seeks views on proposed reforms to criminal law and procedure to address how pre-recorded evidence is taken from child and vulnerable witnesses.

The Scottish Government plans to work with the senior judiciary, courts and other key partners to progress the recommendations of the Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service's Evidence and Procedure Review, including the necessary steps to enable child witnesses to provide pre-recorded evidence.

The consultation outlines gaps within the current system which may need to be addressed in order for children to be able to give evidence as early as possible in the process. Views are therefore being sought on potential reforms that could make significant changes to the current process. Although the initial focus of this consultation is primarily on child witnesses, the consultation seeks views on how any reforms could potentially also be rolled out for vulnerable adult witnesses in the future.

• Complete the consultation here.