Written question asked by Claire Curtis-Thomas (Labour) on Thursday, 23 May 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 19 September 2002. It was answered by Baroness Harman (Labour) on Thursday, 19 September 2002 on behalf of the Solicitor General.

Solicitor-General

Question: To ask the Solicitor General, what training CPS staff have received in achieving Best Evidence guidance on preparing for and conducting interviews with vulnerable and intimidated witnesses; and which and how many staff have been trained on each CPS area. - (Holding answer 10 June 2002).

Answer: Mrs. Curtis-Thomas: To ask the Solicitor-General what training CPS staff have received in achieving Best Evidence guidance on preparing for and conducting interviews with vulnerable and intimidated witnesses; and which and how many staff have been trained on each CPS area. [60227] The Solicitor-General: [holding answer 10 June 2002]: The CPS will not be involved in interviewing vulnerable or intimidated witnesses, however, the guidance for achieving "Best Evidence" will be used by lawyers when reviewing video recorded evidence. The training consists of an e-learning package, followed by a three day practical course. To date 269 members of staff have received this training. These staff members are comprised of both caseworkers and lawyers from across all the Areas.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 60227; 390 c83W
Session: 2001-02
Subjects: Crown Prosecution Service Evidence Intimidation Interviews Staff Training Witnesses
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk