A bill that proposes major changes to Scotland's criminal justice system will be debated by MSPs at Holyrood later.The Victims, Witnesses, and Justice Reform Bill would also see the number of jurors in criminal trials reduced from 15 to 12, and could also see rape cases held without a jury.Why is the bill controversial?
Committee convener Audrey Nicoll MSP said they agreed with the bill's general principles on the basis that it is designed to improve the system for victims and witnesses, but believe further evidence, data and scrutiny is required. The Scottish Solicitors Bar Association said 97% of defence lawyers would boycott the trial without jury pilot if it goes ahead, while Rape Crisis Scotland said it supported the move.The government says it aims to "improve the experience of victims and witnesses in the justice system", as well as making the justice system fairer and more transparent.
While the bill makes its way through parliament, the Scottish government has already started implementing measures to improve the experiences of witnesses. Angela Constance has announced plans for two new suites which will cover the north and south Strathclyde sheriffdoms, as well as Dumfries and Galloway.
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