Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, what special measures are available for victims involved in sexual assault or rape proceedings.

There are a range of special measures in place for vulnerable and intimidated victims and witnesses in criminal justice proceedings. Complainants of sexual offences are eligible for special measures as ‘intimidated witnesses’ but they may also be eligible as ‘vulnerable witnesses’ if they are under 18 or lacking in capacity. The measures available for vulnerable and intimidated witnesses include the power for a court to order arrangements for live video links, video recorded evidence in chief, and screens around the witness box. Courts are also able to order that vulnerable victims and witnesses receive assistance with communication, including the use of an intermediary, to help them understand the questions they are being asked and to give their answers accurately. We have partially commenced the provision of pre-recorded cross examination of vulnerable witnesses in 3 crown court centres. This partial commencement will be extended to complainants in sexual and modern slavery offences for cases starting in September 2017.