§ Mr. Jonathan EvansTo ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department what measures are being taken by courts in Wales to protect child witnesses with particular reference to the use of screens, television link equipment and pre-recorded interviews; and if he will make a statement.
Mr. John M. TaylorIn Wales, TV links and video playback equipment are in place at the following crown court centres; Caernarfon, Cardiff, Mold, Newport, and Swansea. Arrangements can be made for screens to be available at all Crown court centres and county courts in Wales if required. All magistrates courts in Wales have access to screens and video playback equipment, and may use the TV links in place at Crown court centres.
§ Mr. Jonathan EvansTo ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department which courts in Wales have child liasion officers to protect child witnesses; and if he will make a statement.
Mr. John M. TaylorThere is a designated child liaison officer for every crown court centre, including the following in Wales: Caernarfon; Cardiff; Carmarthen; Dolgellau; Haverfordwest; Merthyr Tydfil; Mold; Newport; Swansea, and Welshpool.