Justice Committee to take evidence on the impact of pre-recorded cross-examination
Meeting details
The Justice Committee will question Minister Alex Davies-Jones during an evidence session on Tuesday, 9 Septemberexploring the impact of pre-recorded cross-examination, under Section 28 of the Youth Justice and Criminal Evidence Act (YJCEA) 1999.
Section 28 of the YJCEA allows vulnerable witnesses (under Section 16 of the YJCEA) and intimidated witnesses (under Section 17(4) of the YJCEA) to video record their cross-examination before the trial.
Discussion is expected to focus on the impact of pre-recorded cross-examination, including the effect of the use of Section 28 on the experience of witnesses, victims, defendants and juries, legal practitioners and courts.
The session will assess the available evidence on the efficacy of Section 28, including the Ministry of Justice’s and Professor Cheryl Thomas's evaluations of its impact. It is also likely to explore proposals to reform Section 28.
The Committee may also explore other areas related in the remit of Minister Davies-Jones, primarily focussing on Violence Against Women and Girls.