§ Mr. LevittTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will set out the timetable and the process of consultation for his review of the law which prohibits non-jurors from being present during a jury's deliberations with particular reference to human aids to communication. [82725]
§ Mr. BoatengThe review of the law which prohibits non-jurors from being present during a jury's deliberations raises issues both of principle and practicality. In order to provide statistical evidence to support the review, research has been commissioned and will begin in June into the composition of juries and the reasons for jury excusals, including deafness. This research is due to be completed in the autumn and in the meantime work is being carried out to prepare a paper which could be issued for public consultation next year.