Oral Answers to Questions

Damien Moore Excerpts

Tuesday 5th June 2018 Commons Chamber

[Lucy Frazer]

My hon. Friend makes an extremely important point. Our system is highly regarded throughout the world because of our respect for the rule of law, and the quality and integrity of our judiciary. The Department will seek to ensure that we help law firms to get the best post-Brexit arrangements with the EU on recognition and enforcement of judgments, and mutual recognition of qualifications.

[Damien Moore (Southport) (Con)]

16. What steps his Department is taking to improve the court experience for victims and witnesses.

[Lucy Frazer]

We want to improve the court experience for everyone, including victims and witnesses. We now have video links in many courts that allow victims and vulnerable people to take part in criminal proceedings without having to meet the defendant face-to-face in court.

[Damien Moore]

What steps are being taken to ensure that victims and witnesses who give evidence in court are provided with access to counselling and other mental health services?

[Lucy Frazer]

My hon. Friend is right to identify the fact that we need to support vulnerable people who go through the justice system. That is why we will spend about £96 million this year to support and fund services such as the ones he identifies, including pre-trial visits and funding for police and crime commissioners to commission local services, including rape support services.