§ Mr. Darlingasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will indicate when he will make proposals to amend the law of evidence in Scotland in relation to the prosecution of sexual assaults; and what further consultations he proposes.
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonThere are no immediate plans for further change. However, the Scottish Law Commission is considering the law of evidence in criminal proceedings. In particular my noble and learned Friend the Lord Advocate who has ministerial responsibility for 863W the law of evidence, has asked the commission to consider what reforms might be made to lessen the burden of giving evidence by witnesses who are considered to be particularly vulnerable, such as children.
In accordance with its normal procedure the commission will in due course produce a consultative memorandum providing an opportunity for those interested in this matter to give their views.