Time in court slashed for witnesses - minister

A new computer network linking 101 Crown courts and criminal justice agencies is to be introduced nationally today.

The new network will allow for more police on the streets, making giving evidence in court much easier and updating police records much faster, Courts minister Christopher Leslie has said.

Unveiling XHIBIT at Snaresbrook Crown court in east London today, Mr Leslie said people could track court hearings via modern technology - online via the Internet, through a text message or a pager.

As a result, victims and witnesses will spend less time waiting to give evidence while it is estimated the technology will save some 80,000 police days every year, meaning less time for officers waiting in courtrooms for cases to progress.

Mr Leslie said: "Giving evidence in court can sometimes involve an unpredictable waiting time, but this XHIBIT technology now means witnesses, whether online or through their mobile phone, will be more in touch with the tracking of their case.

"We estimate that some 80,000 extra days of policing a year will be a huge benefit from this new technology. More police on the streets tackling crime and less time in court.”

"The national roll-out of XHIBIT is a clear example of courts using technology to improve the reality and perception of the criminal justice system.

"This all adds up to a better deal for victims and witnesses in the court process. It is a practical measure that will help make it easier for victims under great pressure."

The Police National Computer will receive information from Crown courts such as case results, bail orders, and bench warrants far quicker, allowing the police to enforce the orders and warrants much quicker as well.

The XHIBIT technology, a £20 million project between the Department for Constitutional Affairs and supplier EDS, has been piloted at Snaresbrook Crown court this year. It will now be introduced into Crown courts across England and Wales.

(MB)