§ Mrs. DunwoodyTo ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department how much notice is given to expert witnesses attending cases at the Crown court.
Mr. John M. TaylorIt is the responsibility of the prosecution and defence, and not the court, to notify witnesses of the date their attendance is required. The period of notice differs from case to case according to the circumstances of the case. However, those responsible for listing in the Crown court are aware of the difficulties faced by expert witnesses and, wherever possible, seek to give the parties as much notice of trial dates as they are able. Fixed dates for trial are often requested in cases involving expert witnesses, and such requests are acceded to wherever practicable.