Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, what steps his Department is taking to ensure that every person taking part in virtual court hearings during the covid-19 outbreak has adequate technology to do so.

In response to the current pandemic HMCTS have increased the capacity for telephone and video hearings so that hearings can take place remotely where appropriate. We are clear that audio and video hearings provide an additional channel for conducting a hearing and should be as accessible as possible. However, they may not be suitable for everyone. The decision to hold a hearing by telephone or video is for the judge, panel or magistrate, taking into account the needs of the parties, including their ability to access and use the right technology.

The technology used by HMCTS should be accessible for many people. The teleconferencing technology, BTMeetMe, requires a phone. The video technology (Skype for Business and the Cloud Video Platform) needs a stable internet connection and internet enabled device with a camera and microphone. In order to join Skype for Business calls as a guest, users will need to download the Skype Meetings web app or the Skype for Business desktop app. These are both free, and straight forward processes.

HMCTS provides information and guidance on joining a remote hearing in hearing notices and on GOV.UK. HMCTS has created staff guidance and learning products so that staff can support users over the phone and set up a technical support line for remote hearings.

Court users can inform HMCTS if they need support or cannot participate effectively in a telephone or video hearing. The judiciary can then determine how to proceed, and whether to change the method of the hearing or put in place reasonable adjustments for disabled people or alternative arrangements to ensure users can participate. For example, it is possible to dial someone into a video hearing if needed.

HMCTS is working with the advice sector who are advising us on the impacts on users including impacts relating to access to technology.